Montclair, in North Jersey, is preparing for a stretch of intense heat next week that could see temperatures soaring into the upper 90s Fahrenheit (mid-30s Celsius). In response, the Montclair School District announced plans to shorten school days for the week of June 23–26, citing concerns over student and staff safety.
In a message sent to parents on Tuesday, June 18, Interim Superintendent Damen G. Cooper explained that although weather conditions may evolve, the district is taking proactive steps to mitigate the effects of the forecasted heat wave.
The modified schedule will now include early dismissals on June 23 and June 24, in addition to the already planned shortened days on June 25 and June 26. A final decision on this adjusted schedule will be made on Saturday, June 22.
According to the National Weather Service, an advisory is now in effect, warning of an extended period of dangerous heat and humidity starting as early as Saturday, June 22, and likely peaking between Monday and Wednesday.
For Montclair, the daily high temperatures are expected to reach:
Sunday, June 23 – around 95°F (35°C)
Monday, June 24 – close to 97°F (36°C)
Tuesday, June 25 – approximately 93°F (34°C)
This developing situation raises the question: will other school districts across North Jersey follow Montclair’s lead and adapt their schedules in light of this heat emergency?
