New air conditioning in the Mt. Carmel Elementary School gym is already making a major difference for students and staff, particularly during the recent stretch of extreme heat.
Physical Education teacher Lindsey Hadley spoke to the Wabash District #348 School Board recently about the improvements. She was introduced by Elementary Principal Jake Newkirk, who said the benefits have extended beyond the gym, with lower humidity making conditions more comfortable throughout the building’s main level.
Hadley, now in her 13th year at the elementary school, said that before air conditioning, the gym could feel like a furnace during warm weather. Students frequently needed breaks in front of large industrial fans, making it difficult to complete the P.E. curriculum.
Hadley said that has completely changed this year.
Even during one of the hottest starts to a school year she can remember, classes have been able to continue without heat-related breaks. She said students are staying more focused and classes are moving through the curriculum much more quickly.
The improvements are also benefiting students during lunch, which is served in the gym. Hadley said lunchtime is now more relaxed, rather than students eating hot food in an already hot environment.
Hadley thanked Superintendent Dr. Chuck Bleyer, the school board, Newkirk, the contractors and district staff for making the project possible.
Bleyer said the project wasn't simply about comfort. He said the district had previously been losing valuable instructional time during hot weather.
Bleyer said the new system has allowed the district to recapture that instructional time while also improving conditions for the health of students and staff.
