Detroit schools upgrade air conditioning after heat dismissals
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Superintendent Nikolai Vitti of Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) updated the school board on improvements to air conditioning systems across the district’s buildings.
In 2018, only 34% of DPSCD schools had full air conditioning, but now more than half do, as of the start of the 2026-27 school year. This work is part of a $700 million facility master plan funded by one-time federal COVID relief money, which began in 2022.
DPSCD recently issued two early dismissals due to temperatures reaching 90 degrees or higher. When temperatures hit 85 degrees, schools dismiss at noon to protect students and staff, particularly those in buildings without air conditioning. The district previously placed fans in all buildings when most lacked air conditioning and will continue to do so, delivering fans to all classrooms regardless of request.
Looking ahead, DPSCD expects 81% of schools to have full air conditioning by the 2028-29 school year, and 11% to have partial air conditioning. However, fully air conditioning the remaining 19 schools will require an additional $245 million.
The board will discuss allocating funds for these upgrades during an upcoming budget meeting, and is also considering allowing schools with full air conditioning to stay open on hot days when others close early, though coordinating transportation and addressing childcare concerns present challenges.
