As heat waves are presumed to begin striking Pelham within the next week, elementary students from Colonial, Prospect and Siwanoy schools will have early releases at noon on Monday and Tuesday due to minimal air conditioning in these three buildings, according to Superintendent Dr. Cheryl Champ.

Sixth graders at Pelham Middle School and Hutchinson Elementary School students will continue to follow their usual schedules, as these buildings have access to AC. Pelham Memorial High School additionally will be continuing to use original scheduling and students are still required to attend any examinations that are occurring on dates of early release.

“Recognizing the burden and inconvenience this change puts on families, please know that this decision was made with careful consideration,” said Champ. “We hope that sharing it now provides families enough time to plan for childcare and other arrangements.”

Students belonging to the three schools with ACs will continue attending their typical 3 pm release school days for the remainder of the week. Students in grades 7-12 will proceed with their final exams schedules.

“While adding window air conditioners to upper-level classrooms in our schools has helped during typical warm weather, there are not enough air-conditioned spaces throughout these buildings to continue safely operating on a regular schedule during the peak afternoon heat,” said the superintendent.

Principals of each elementary school have ensured that they will follow up with parents regarding building-specific adjustments related to student activities and plans.