Half Days Called For 3 Medford Schools Amid Heat

MEDFORD, MA – Administrators in Medford are already calling a half day for the first day of school amid an area heat wave. Superintendent Marice Edouard-Vincent announced Monday that Medford High School, Medford Vocational Technical High School and Curtis Tufts Alternative School will dismiss early because there is no air conditioning in those buildings.

The reduced schedules will be in effect for Tuesday, Aug. 28 and Wednesday, Aug. 29 for high school students only. Dismissal will be at noon.

Administrators say Medford's K-8 schools are air conditioned and their schedules will not be affected. Recess will take place inside.

Related: Medford 2018-19 School Year Preview

Edouard-Vincent issued the following statement:

"Medford High School, Medford Vocational Technical High School and the Curtis Tufts Alternative School are very old buildings and can be hot, even when temperatures are not soaring like they will be this week. With heat indices expected to hit around 105, I felt it was potentially dangerous for our students and staff. Therefore on Tuesday and Wednesday, all three schools will be dismissed at 12 noon. For students utilizing school buses, they will be picking up the students at noon. Those participating in Mustang team sports will be expected to head home at noon, and then return to Medford High when their respective team is practicing. Already scheduled scrimmages, at this time, will go on as planned. All coaches have been reminded that student-athletes will require lots of fluids."

Kids' Corner at Medford High School is air conditioned and will operate during its regularly scheduled hours. The infant and toddler rooms already have air conditioning, and the preschool will be moved to an air-conditioned room.

"Our top priority must be the safety for all of our students and staff. We hope that parents will dress students appropriately for the hotter weather and provide them with water bottles which will be allowed in all classrooms," Edouard-Vincent said. "Administrators, teachers, and staff at MHS/MVTHS and the Curtis Tufts will work full days. They are welcome to utilize Bistro 489 or the 3rd floor Science Lecture Hall in 'B' Building, as those areas are air conditioned."

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