MEMPHIS, Tenn. — As Memphis-Shelby County Schools prepare to open next week, the district is working to ensure air conditioning systems are operational amid concerns from parents and officials.

The district has faced HVAC issues in the past, prompting worries about classroom conditions as temperatures rise.

“We are hoping that this district is up on the game and know that next week is game time,” said Charlie Caswell, Shelby County Commissioner. “I believe that they hopefully will be ready.”

Last year, several schools, including Trezevant High School, experienced HVAC problems, leading to uncomfortable learning environments.

Parents like Lakaya Davis, whose children attend Hawkins Mill Elementary, are hopeful that this year will be different.

“Who don’t want to be comfortable going to school in good environment, good air,” said Davis. “I mean, you can’t focus in no heat.”

Her son, Marquise, a fifth grader, echoed these sentiments, expressing his desire for a cooler classroom.

To address these concerns, Memphis-Shelby County Schools have installed 10 new HVAC systems and are in the final stages of testing them.

The district aims to prevent any unexpected issues when classes resume on Monday.

Commissioner Caswell also said the importance of sustaining air conditioning systems and the role of funding through the education fund and wheel tax.

He said that deferred maintenance remains a significant challenge, with over a billion dollars in needs.

With new HVAC systems in place, the district hopes to provide a comfortable learning environment for students as they return to school.