Denver Public Schools Cancel Classes Due to Extreme Heat

News Summary

In response to extreme heat conditions, Denver Public Schools (DPS) have canceled classes at several schools, prioritizing student safety as temperatures are expected to soar into the high 90s. Among the affected schools are Johnson Elementary and Bryant Webster ECE-8, which will dismiss students early. The ongoing heat wave has raised concerns about the lack of air conditioning in many older school buildings, prompting DPS to take precautionary measures. Neighboring districts are also considering similar actions to ensure student safety during this heat event.

Denver Public Schools Cancel Classes and Issue Early Releases Due to Extreme Heat

Denver, CO – Denver Public Schools (DPS) have canceled classes at more than a dozen schools on Thursday in response to anticipated extreme heat conditions. The decision came as temperatures in the area are expected to reach the high 90s, prompting school officials to prioritize student safety and well-being.

Specific Schools Affected and Dismissal Times

Among the schools affected by the early dismissal are Johnson Elementary and Bryant Webster ECE-8. Johnson Elementary will release students at 12:30 p.m., while Bryant Webster will dismiss students at 12:20 p.m.. The schools will provide lunch to students before they leave for the day. School bus services for these early dismissals will continue to operate on their regular routes according to the respective dismissal times.

High Temperatures and School Conditions

The decision to cancel or delay classes aligns with weather forecasts predicting high temperatures, which are expected to approach 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Many DPS schools lack proper air conditioning, making it challenging to maintain a comfortable and safe environment during such heat waves. This issue is especially prevalent in older school buildings and has led to frequent school closures during extreme weather periods, particularly in August.

Additional Program Cancellations and Closures

In addition to regular classes, some schools will also be canceling extracurricular programs such as Little Links and Discovery Link, which provide after-school activities and childcare services. These cancellations aim to reduce student exposure to heat and ensure safety outside of regular school hours.

Other Districts Taking Similar Actions

Not only Denver, but neighboring districts such as Poudre School District are also releasing most schools early due to soaring temperatures. Poudre’s actions include early dismissals for all elementary and middle schools as well as some high schools, reflecting a regional concern over heat risks.

Communication and Parent Notification

School officials have acknowledged that sudden closures can pose challenges for families, especially those relying on school transportation or after-school programs. DPS has committed to informing families of potential closures by 5 p.m. the evening before, allowing parents to prepare accordingly.

Challenges in Cooling Infrastructure

Some schools, including Skinner Middle School, are still awaiting the installation of air conditioning units following a voter-approved bond meant to fund upgrades. Delays in these upgrades have been linked to issues such as the presence of asbestos — which was discovered during renovation work — resulting in extended timelines for these projects. The installation at Skinner Middle School is now scheduled to conclude in 2026.

Community Concerns and Frustration

Community members and families have raised concerns about the lack of adequate cooling facilities during extreme heat events. Questions have been directed towards how taxpayer funds are allocated, especially in relation to the delay of air conditioning upgrades in schools that lack proper climate control. The ongoing issues highlight the challenges districts face in ensuring student safety amidst climate-related weather extremes.

Background Context

Heat-related school closures are a recurring pattern during the summer months, particularly in regions where older school buildings predominate and cooling systems are insufficient or absent. As climate change contributes to more frequent and intense heat waves, school districts across many areas are increasingly faced with the need to adapt and implement safety measures like early dismissals to protect students and staff.

Overall, the response by Denver Public Schools reflects a precautionary approach aimed at safeguarding health during extreme weather—a challenge compounded by aging infrastructure and ongoing infrastructure upgrades that have faced logistical delays.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Denver Schools Cancel Classes Due to Extreme Heat Wave
School Year Postponed in Grand Junction Due to Wildfires
Air Conditioning Malfunction Delays School Opening

Additional Resources

• Denverite
• Denver7
• KDVR
• CBS News
• 9News
• Wikipedia: School Closures
• Google Search: Extreme Heat in Schools
• Google Scholar: School Closures Due to Heat
• Encyclopedia Britannica: School Climate Challenges
• Google News: Denver Schools Heat Closures