Jalen Hurts, the Philadelphia Eagles’ quarterback, has exhibited his community spirit by donating $200,000 to fund the installation of air conditioners in Philadelphia-area schools, allowing students to be more comfortable during the hotter months.
According to the Philadelphia Voice, the School District of Philadelphia indicated that the money will “improve the learning environment and comfort for students and staff.”
Speaking at a Philadelphia-area school in April, Hurts said, “I think back to my time as a student not being able to imagine some of the things that you guys have to go through. I just want to serve you guys and help in any way I can.”
The superintendent of the Philadelphia school district, Dr. Tony B. Watlington Sr., stated in an address, “More than half of our schools lack appropriate air-conditioning such that when the temperature climbs higher than 86 to 90 degrees, we too often have to let our kids go home early. And that really impacts student achievement.”
The superintendent claimed that providing air conditioning “benefits teachers, as well, because when teachers have optimal teaching conditions, they’re more likely to return as teachers.”
Hot classrooms can hinder learning and negatively impact test scores, according to research.
Watlington Sr. told “Good Morning America” that the donation is projected to supply 300 air conditioning units to ten local schools, benefiting over 5,000 kids in the district.
Watlington Sr. indicated in April that installation of air-conditioning equipment has begun and will be completed by the start of the next school year.
According to the Philly Voice, the following schools will receive ACs: Clara Barton School, Gloria Casarez Elementary School, Castor Gardens Middle School, D. Newlin Fell School, Thomas K. Finletter School, Fitler Academics Plus, Abram Jenks School, Edward Gideon School, Theodore Roosevelt School, and Science Leadership Academy at Benjamin Franklin High School.
According to a news source, due to excessive heat, all 10 schools implemented an early dismissal policy for the first days of courses in September 2023.