Parma schools superintendent offers thoughts on start date debate amid heatwave

PARMA, Ohio (WJW) — Heat, humidity, and homework. It’s a combination thousands of students in northeast Ohio are dealing with as late summer heat settles in this week.

No one knows that better than Parma City School’s Superintendent Charlie Smialek.

“You are talking about having around 30 people in these little classrooms, some of which were built in the 1920’s, so it can get very difficult, very stifling,” Smialek said.

Parma schools don’t start classes until Sept. 3, and when it comes to the age-old debate on whether to start school before or after Labor Day, Smialek said he can see both sides.

“The hottest days tend to be in September. In fact, a couple of years ago, the hottest day for a heat day was Sept. 30,” Smialek explained.

In total, about 30 schools across northeast Ohio canceled class on Tuesday because of the high temps.

Smialek said that can create challenges for families.

“It’s difficult because you always have to be cognizant of families who don’t have plans. You can say yes, have a contingency plan, but that’s easier said than done,” he said.

Smialek understands that every school district has their reasons for starting when they do, but he believes beating the heat all together this time of year is a near-impossible feat.

Smialek added as long as the state keeps its testing window where it currently stands, he doesn’t see many districts moving their start date to the beginning of September.

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