AC Issues at Houston ISD Schools Cause Concern Among Parents
Parents of Houston ISD students are frustrated and worried about the lack of functioning air conditioning units in several schools over the past few weeks. Jessica Campos, a parent with two daughters in HISD schools, has been receiving daily emails from the principal of High School for Law and Justice (HSLJ) about the HVAC system issues.
Despite reassurances that students are safe and measures have been taken to provide a conducive learning environment, Campos, whose husband works in HVAC, is concerned about the prolonged nature of the issues. She believes that these emails are a way to highlight the need for the $4.4 billion bond that is up for approval.
The bond, if passed, will fund projects such as rebuilding campuses, improving safety, and updating HVAC systems. An open letter from the Harvard Elementary Parent Teacher Association addressed the ongoing HVAC issues and requested a timeline for resolution, citing past occurrences of similar issues.
Parents like Campos are skeptical of the bond and express dissatisfaction with the current HISD administration’s handling of the situation. They question the allocation of funds and criticize the lack of transparency and responsiveness from district officials.
Various schools, including Lamar High School, Crockett Elementary School, and Lanier Middle School, have also reported HVAC issues, leading to concerns about the well-being of students and teachers. Teisha Mayes, a volunteer at Crockett Elementary, described the unbearable heat in classrooms and the impact on students.
The community’s concerns are reflected in social media discussions about the need for better facilities and a more proactive approach to addressing HVAC issues in HISD schools. As the Nov. 5 ballot approaches, parents and stakeholders are calling for accountability and tangible solutions to ensure that students have a safe and comfortable learning environment.