NDP calls for cool schools with a heat strategy for Ontario Schools

OTTAWA – As we enter the third day of an extreme heatwave across the province, Ontario NDP Shadow Minister for education MPP Chandra Pasma (Ottawa West – Nepean) is calling on the Ford government to implement a province-wide heat strategy in schools to protect students and educators.

In a letter sent today to Education Minister Paul Calandra, Pasma outlined urgent concerns about dangerously high classroom temperatures and their effects on student health, safety and learning.

“They are neglecting the safety of our children at school, and this time it is by failing to protect them from the escalating risks of extreme heat,” said Pasma. “Many of our schools aren’t built to handle the kinds of temperatures we’re now seeing in the spring and fall. It’s becoming common for classrooms to reach over 30°C. Students can’t learn, teachers can’t teach, and children’s health is being put at risk.”

“Heatstroke and heat exhaustion are all very real threats to students and staff, especially those in older schools and lower-income communities. We cannot continue to ignore the mounting evidence and expert recommendations. It’s time for Ontario to treat extreme heat in schools like the crisis it is.”

“No child should get sick—or fall behind—because their classroom is too hot,” Pasma added. “We need urgent, coordinated action now to ensure Ontario’s schools are safe, healthy, and climate resilient.”

Pasma emphasized that the impacts of heat fall disproportionately on children with asthma, ADHD, and other health or learning needs, and that inaction deepens existing inequities. The letter also urges the government to develop and fund a comprehensive heat strategy that includes:

• A maximum indoor temperature standard for schools
• Retrofitting schools with air conditioners or heat pumps
• Building upgrades like insulation, energy-efficient windows, cool roofs, and exterior blinds
• Outdoor adaptations such as shade trees and permeable surfaces
• Passive cooling infrastructure including shade structures and misting stations
• Training and guidance for educators on recognizing and responding to heat stress