The persistent heat these days which has the weather service issuing almost daily heat advisories is leading to extra precautions for Gainesville and Hall County students and their outdoor activities, such as recess and football and band practices.
Both school systems follow state-mandated guidelines set forth by the Georgia High School Association that address the issue.
“We take the heat very seriously,” said county schools spokesman Stan Lewis. “Every day, we take the Wet Globe Bulb (WBG) reading using our weather stations. WBG measures the heat, heat index, and Humidity, and based on that reading, we follow the (those) heat protocols…”
And for the GCSS: All athletics follow the state guidelines. “With the addition of the pavilion, the temps are lower, which allows for more access to practices,” said Supt. Jeremy Williams. “Additionally, gym space is available for teams after school.
“For recess, the schedule varies based on when students are assigned recess. The morning hours are not typically a concern and schools monitor temperatures, and the length of time students spend outside in the afternoon.”
You can read those state guidelines GHSA Guidance.