Off Guard Again
Heatwaves Disrupt Schools—Appearing Too Suddenly
Météo-France issued orange and even red heat warnings in many departments, catching schools off guard. The Ministry of Education recommended special measures—like delaying the summer vacation schedule, closing some schools, and shifting to cooler hours—but many institutions struggled to implement them in time .
- In some places, classrooms reached 35°C or higher, making concentration hard and risking children’s health .
What Schools Tried to Do
- The Education Ministry suggested:
- Keeping blinds closed and ventilating at night
- Letting students drink water often, wear hats/sunglasses, and follow cool dress codes
- Shifting PE and outdoor events to early morning or canceling them entirely
- Using air-conditioned classrooms as cool zones when available
- Providing water at exam centers and allowing students to take water breaks during tests
Why It’s Still Problematic
- Despite guidelines, many schools lacked cooling systems and proper insulation, leaving students in uncomfortably hot rooms .
- Teachers and school leaders say the level of heat was underestimated, and implementation was too slow. Some described classrooms as feeling like “an oven” .
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What Could Help Next Time
Experts emphasize:
- Schools need more structural upgrades—better insulation, fans, and options for shading like planting trees or adding blinds .
- Community involvement, such as parent-led schoolyard greening projects, can offer quick relief from heat .
- It’s time to plan school activities and exams around heat forecasts, not weather surprises .
Conclusion: Schools Must Adapt or Suffer
French schools are regularly overwhelmed by early and intense heatwaves. While good steps were taken like warnings, water breaks, and shaded spaces—the system still lacks the fast reaction time, infrastructure, and day-to-day adaptations needed to keep children safe and learning.
To avoid future disruptions and safeguard students France needs:
- Better-built, climate-ready classrooms
- Smart daily heat management (ventilation, schedules, hydration)
- Community and parent involvement in practical solutions
Heatwaves aren’t a one-time problem they’re becoming the new normal. Schools must act now to protect students, staff, and education alike.