The Board of Education has approved a bond-funded initiative to install air conditioning systems in school cafeterias across Los Angeles.

The $30 million will install multi-ton commercial-grade air conditioning equipment at up to 682 in local cafeteria kitchens. Implementation is set to begin in the first quarter of 2023 to complete as many sites as possible.

The $30 million project is a substantial investment in cooling equipment and complements the 2022-26 Strategic Plan to upgrade facilities for operational efficiency.

The mission set forth by the school board is to develop an innovative plan for improving student learning to close opportunity gaps and thus enhance outcomes for students across all schools.

Los Angeles Unified picked schools in Region North based on their heat zones, which are classified according to the number of school days a facility reaches temperatures above 86 degrees Fahrenheit thanks to the recent heat wave occurrences. The number of meals served by each institution was also taken into account, according to the district.

Los Angeles Unified is also continuing its SEEDs initiative, allowing them to create more safe spaces for students with shade and drinks and plant more trees and plants to deal with gas emissions.

“Los Angeles Unified is committed to the ongoing and continuous process of upgrading and modernizing our infrastructure,” Superintendent Alberto M. Carvalho said. “The additional support for cafeteria kitchens will provide important cooling investments to address some of the aging units in our buildings.”

“As the effects of the climate crisis continue to intensify, we will continue investing in urgent, comprehensive mitigation strategies to ensure the health and safety of everyone on our campuses — including our dedicated food service staff who work tirelessly to provide students with up to three meals a day,” Board Member Nick Melvoin said.

How does Student Hires Support School Districts?

Student Hires is an innovative initiative that brings together college students and disadvantaged youth from their community in robust experiential learning programs.

These hands-on activities are designed to introduce students to the skills they need to develop a successful career, such as critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and professional etiquette.

By collaborating directly with college students, disadvantaged youth gain access to resources and experiences not accessible through traditional classroom learning. Through this unique program, Student Hires is bridging educational gaps and providing crucial support for those in their community who need it most.

Conclusion

The Los Angeles Unified School District has taken a significant step in improving the air-conditioning systems of its cafeterias by utilizing a 30 million dollar bond; they have been able to upgrade their HVAC systems and provide students with enhanced comfort during hot days. With this investment, Los Angeles Unified ensures its students have the best learning environment possible.