TOWSON, Md. (AP) - A new policy in Baltimore County requires non-air conditioned public schools to close when the heat index reaches 90 degrees.
Media outlets report the Baltimore County Public Schools Board of Education passed the policy Tuesday, which directs the superintendent to close the affected schools if the heat index is forecast to reach 90 degrees by 11 a.m. When possible, the closure should be announced by 8 p.m. the preceding night.
If the heat index is forecast to reach 90 degrees by 2 p.m., the new policy directs the superintendent to close non-air conditioned schools two hours early.
The measure also allows students to carry water bottles at all times and gives principals flexibility to move students to cooler rooms.
The policy goes into effect Aug. 23.
