Heat Safety in Schools ─ What You Need to Know

Classrooms Are Heating Up!

What law was signed into effect that pertains to excessive heat in schools?

NYSUT advocated for §409-n of NYS Education Law which sets maximum indoor temperatures in school buildings. All public schools and BOCES must establish policies ensuring safety in extreme heat conditions.

Classrooms Are Heating Up!

Who does this law apply to?

This law applies to all public-school districts and BOCES in NYS. It applies to all educational and support areas (excluding kitchen spaces and buses).


When does this law take effect?

September 1, 2025.


At what temperatures does this law apply?

  • 82°F – Schools must take action to relieve heat-related discomfort.
  • 88°F – Rooms and spaces cannot be used, when practicable.

How is the classroom temperature measured?

Temperatures will be taken at a shaded location, three feet above the floor and near the center of the room.


What actions can a school take to reduce heat-related discomfort?

Schools may:

  • Relocate staff and students to cooler rooms and spaces
  • Turn off overhead lights and unused electronics
  • Lower blinds or shades
  • Open windows and doors to increase airflow
  • Use fans to improve circulation
  • Provide frequent water breaks

What happens if the room temperature reaches 88°F?

All districts and BOCES are required to have an extreme heat policy. Such policy shall include a plan to remove students and staff from occupied spaces. If the District’s policy is not sufficient, please contact your Labor Relations Specialist to review the specifics of the situation.


Do Districts and BOCES have to develop an Extreme Heat Condition policy?

Districts and BOCES must develop a policy for ensuring the health and safety of students and staff on extreme heat condition days, as required by Education Law §409-n. Ask your building or district administration to review it.


Can I ask to see the employer’s policy?

Yes. Ask your building or district administration to review it.


What resources are available for the extreme heat policy?

Please contact your Labor Relations Specialist if you have any questions, or visit nysut.cc/wphealth to contact NYSUT’s Health & Safety Specialist.


Advice for Local Leaders

  • Ask if your employer has developed a written policy for extreme heat, or when it plans to adopt one, before the September 1, 2025 deadline. This policy may be adopted through the Board of Education.
  • Make sure you have a union representative on the District-Wide School Safety Team.
  • Stay informed about your district’s timeline, including Board meeting dates during the summer.
  • Ensure your district policy includes a plan to relocate people during extreme heat condition days.