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20h ago

Houston ISD Schools Face Recurring AC Breakdowns as Temperatures Rise

Recent HVAC failures at multiple campuses highlight aging infrastructure challenges, with temporary fixes in place and long-term upgrades planned for 2025-26.

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Overview

  • Heights High School dismissed students early on Monday due to air conditioning issues, while Harvard Elementary and Wheatley High experienced HVAC failures on Tuesday.
  • Students at Harvard Elementary were temporarily relocated while maintenance teams resolved the issue, and Wheatley High implemented measures to maintain a safe environment during repairs.
  • HISD policy mandates action if indoor temperatures exceed 75°F, with relocations and spot coolers deployed as needed to ensure student safety.
  • A $4.4 billion bond proposal to address HVAC and other infrastructure needs was rejected by voters in November 2024, contributing to ongoing challenges.
  • Superintendent Mike Miles has proposed a $40 million allocation for HVAC and safety improvements in the 2025-26 budget, with several campuses slated for chiller replacements next fiscal year.