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 Chapter 596 of the Laws of 2024, which adds new requirements to NYS Education Law setting 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?

A response to extreme heat must be included in the District-Wide School Safety Plan. As part of the law, rooms and spaces must not be occupied by students and staff upon reaching 88 degrees. If the District’s plan is not sufficient, please contact your Labor Relations Specialist to review the specifics of the situation.


How is the District-Wide School Safety Plan developed?

The District-Wide Safety Team, which must include union representatives per Commissioner’s Regulations Section 155.17, develops the District-Wide School Safety Plan. It must be updated annually and adopted by the board of education by September 1 each year with a 30-day comment period and public hearing.


Can I ask to see the employer’s policy?

Yes. The extreme heat policies are part of the District-Wide School Safety Plan. 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 to see your current District-Wide School Safety Plan.
  • Make sure you have a representative serving on the District-Wide School Safety Team to help develop your district’s extreme heat responses.
  • Ensure your district policy includes a plan to relocate people during high-heat events.
  • Pay attention to timelines over the summer requiring a public hearing about the District-Wide Safety Plan, a 30-day comment period and adoption by the Board of Education by September 1.