As Albuquerque students head back to class on Aug. 7, many will face the same uncomfortable reality that has plagued the district for years: classrooms that can reach 80 degrees or higher, even when air conditioning systems are working properly. With just days until school starts, Albuquerque Public Schools cannot guarantee comfortable temperatures in the […]

Kagi AI Summary:
As Albuquerque students return to school on August 7, 72% of classrooms will lack modern air conditioning, relying on outdated evaporative coolers that struggle in extreme heat. Only 28% of classrooms have refrigerated air conditioning. The district faces a $165-$175 million challenge to upgrade all facilities, with a $40.2 million bond proposal for 20 schools pending voter approval in November. Rising temperatures, from 7 days above 97°F in 1990 to projected 45 days by 2050, exacerbate the issue. Evaporative coolers, which can only reduce temperatures by 20 degrees, leave classrooms uncomfortably hot. Educators and parents express concerns about learning conditions, with some teachers purchasing personal air conditioners. Despite recent improvements, cooling unit failures persist, and the district is working to address them. The bond, if approved, would fund conversions at schools like New Futures High and Mary Ann Binford Elementary. The district acknowledges the necessity of refrigerated air conditioning to provide comfortable learning environments amid rising temperatures.