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French Schools Adapt to Heatwave: No Blanket Closures Planned
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As France grapples with a significant heatwave, the Education Minister, speaking on “Dimanche en politique” on June 29, announced that widespread school closures are not currently planned [[1]]. Instead, the government is prioritizing localized, case-by-case decisions in coordination with regional prefects to address the canicule’s impact on students and staff.
Localized Responses to Extreme Heat
With 73 departments under orange alert for extreme heat, the decision emphasizes adapting to specific regional needs. Elisabeth Borne, the Education Minister, stated a preference for tailored responses, acknowledging that school closures could also create difficulties for some parents [[2]].
Did You Know? The French federation of parents, FCPE, had urged the Education Minister to provide clear guidelines for schools to adapt to the heat.
School Closures in Tours
While a national shutdown is off the table, some local areas are taking more drastic action. In Tours, where temperatures are expected to reach between 36ยฐC and 38ยฐC, all schools will close on Monday and Tuesday afternoons to protect children and staff. The municipality is also strongly recommending that parents keep their children home during these periods.
Adapting School Operations
The Ministry of Education has issued guidelines for schools to adapt their operations to cope with the extreme heat. These measures include adapting the use of spaces to minimize sun exposure and ensuring students have access to water.
Schools are instructed to adapt their organization and the use of premises depending on sun exposure, to welcome students in spaces protected from the heat. This declaration comes before the final week of the school year, which includes oral exams for the baccalaurรฉat.
Pro Tip: Encourage children to drink plenty of water throughout the day, regardless of whether they feel thirsty.
The ministry also reminded that, particularly in the event of a red alert, prefectural authorities can decide to temporarily close certain schools to guarantee the safety of students and staff.
Specific adjustments to the operation of schools and educational institutions can be implemented in consultation with local authorities. When possible, parents can keep their children at home if they wish.
Exam Accommodations
With students in their first year taking French oral exams and final-year students undertaking their grand oral,the Ministry of Education is requesting that schools use shaded rooms for the exams where possible. Establishments must also ensure that candidates have access to drinking water and/or allow them to leave the room to rehydrate.
The vast majority of the country is experiencing stifling heat, expected to last until at least the middle of next week, according to Mรฉtรฉo France forecasts.
| Measure | Description |
|---|---|
| Localized Decisions | School closure decisions made case-by-case, coordinated with prefects. |
| Adapted Organization | Schools adjust schedules and space usage to minimize heat exposure. |
| Hydration | Ensuring students have access to potable water. |
| Parental Discretion | Parents might potentially be allowed to keep children home in consultation with schools. |
| Exam Adjustments | Using shaded rooms and providing water for exam candidates. |
Understanding Heatwaves and school Safety
Heatwaves are becoming increasingly frequent and intense due to climate change, posing significant challenges to public health and safety. Schools, in particular, must adapt to protect vulnerable populations like children. Measures such as improved ventilation, access to cooling centers, and flexible attendance policies are crucial in mitigating the impact of extreme heat on students’ well-being and academic performance.
Frequently Asked Questions About School Closures and Heatwaves
What are the criteria for closing a school due to a heatwave?
Criteria often include local temperature forecasts, the availability of cooling infrastructure in schools, and the vulnerability of the student population. Local authorities typically make the final decision based on these factors.
How can parents prepare their children for attending school during a heatwave?
Parents should ensure their children are well-hydrated, dress them in light-colored and loose-fitting clothing, and apply sunscreen. They should also discuss the importance of staying in shaded areas and informing a teacher or staff member if they feel unwell.
What other measures could schools implement to better protect students during heatwaves? Share your thoughts in the comments
