The Director of Education says DOE is getting help from ASPA, Public Works and Territorial Energy Office to upgrade electrical systems in schools so their air conditioners can work.
He said with 1,000 classroom buildings, DOE had to divide the contracts for air conditioners among several local companies.
He stated at a House Education Committee hearing that not all contracts required installation of the air conditioners.
He said, in several cases, the electrical systems need to be upgraded first. Lawmakers reported they are still getting reports of students fainting because of the heat.
KHJ News received reports that Tafuna Elementary ACs were installed in all classrooms since the summer of last year, but none are working.
With the excessive heat, students are experiencing bloody noses and heat allergies. Students with heart problems and other medical conditions are particularly affected.
A road extension going through the school and parking lot of Tafuna Elementary was also raised during the hearing, with the DOE director.
The school has asked if the road can be closed during school hours for the safety of students.
The extension was by Paramount Builders.
