QUEEN’S PARK – Oshawa MPP Jennifer French called on Premier Kathleen Wynne to provide relief to students and educators dealing with extreme temperatures in Ontario classrooms.
“Some classrooms had temperatures as high as 42 degrees this week,” said French. “With temperatures like that, students’ heath is at risk, and their ability to learn is compromised.”
“As a teacher, I have seen firsthand how this affects students.”
French noted that while some schools are able to fundraise to keep students cool, others do not have that luxury.
“Schools in economically challenged areas - like the school I taught at in the south end of Oshawa - don't have community councils with extra money to spend on fans,” said French.
As high temperatures begin to ebb, parents and teachers are raising concerns that many classrooms will once again face heating challenges in the winter. Stories of teachers and students wearing gloves and jackets in the classroom circulated widely last winter.
“Does the premier think parents should have to fundraise to make sure their kids can learn in healthy environments?” asked French.