California Schools Struggle with Broken Air Conditioning Amid Heatwaves

A significant portion of schools lack functional air conditioning, impacting student health and learning as climate change intensifies.

An estimated 15-20% of California's K-12 public schools have no functioning heating or air conditioning systems.
Students and teachers face health issues like heat exhaustion, vomiting, and cramps in sweltering classrooms.
Hot classroom conditions lead to increased absences and reduced learning, with exam performance dropping up to 14% on hot days.
Many schools, especially in low-income areas, lack the financial resources to repair or replace outdated air conditioning systems.
A proposed $10 billion school infrastructure bond will be on the November ballot to fund necessary repairs and upgrades.