Memphis, August 19, 2025
News Summary
A sophomore at Central High School in Memphis was hospitalized after collapsing from heat exhaustion during lunch. Concerns have been raised by parents regarding high classroom temperatures and inadequate air conditioning. While the district’s facilities officer reported no significant HVAC issues, the situation has prompted calls for better conditions to ensure student safety from heat-related incidents.
Memphis โ A sophomore at Central High School was hospitalized on Friday morning after collapsing inside the school, with the incident reportedly attributed to heat exhaustion. The student’s mother indicated that insufficient air conditioning contributed to the situation.
The student lost consciousness while in the cafeteria and was discovered unresponsive before being taken to LeBonheur Childrenโs Hospital. Medical staff confirmed the diagnosis of heat exhaustion shortly after the student’s arrival at the facility.
Dawnita Adams-Osuji, the grandmother of a current Central High student, has raised alarm about the conditions within the school, claiming that classroom temperatures have been excessively high. Students and parents alike have voiced concerns over the impact of heat on student health and comfort.
However, Michelle Stuart, the facilities officer for the district, reported that inspections earlier in the month revealed no significant issues with the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems at Central High. Recorded temperatures in various areas of the school ranged from 75 to 76 degrees Fahrenheit, a standard range for classroom environments.
Stuart also noted that the district had not encountered major HVAC problems during the first two weeks of the academic year, despite ongoing reports of issues affecting four different classrooms.
In response to the incident, interim superintendent Dr. Roderick Richmond has advised that parents should escalate any unresolved issues starting from school principals to regional superintendents, and further to his office if necessary.
Despite the medical emergency involving one student, classes continued as scheduled without interruption. In an effort to alleviate the heat, temporary chillers were activated to help bring some relief to the school environment.
School officials stated that the student who suffered from heat exhaustion was located in a classroom equipped with functional air conditioning at the time of the incident.
Parents and community members are likely to continue pressuring school officials for answers and potential improvements to ensure student safety in the face of high temperatures.
Background
Heat exhaustion can occur in individuals when exposed to high temperatures, particularly during physical activity, and can lead to serious health complications if untreated. Schools often provide guidelines for maintaining safe environments for students, particularly during the hotter months of the year. The situation at Central High School has sparked conversations regarding the adequacy of air conditioning in public schools, especially as temperatures fluctuate throughout the academic year.
FAQ Section
What caused the hospitalization of the Central High School student?
The student collapsed due to heat exhaustion, which their mother claims was exacerbated by inadequate air conditioning.
Where was the student found before being taken to the hospital?
The student was found unresponsive on the cafeteria floor before being transported to LeBonheur Childrenโs Hospital.
What measures were taken by the school following the incident?
Classes proceeded without interruption, and temporary chillers were activated to help regulate temperatures within the school.
What did school officials say about the air conditioning situation?
Officials noted that there were no significant HVAC issues found and temperatures in various locations were reported between 75-76 degrees.
What steps can parents take if they have concerns about school conditions?
Parents are advised to escalate unresolved concerns from school principals to regional superintendents, and ultimately to the district superintendentโs office if necessary.
Key Features Overview
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Incident Type | Student hospitalization due to heat exhaustion |
| Location | Central High School, Memphis |
| Response | Temporary chillers activated; classes continued without interruption |
| Health Advisory | Parents encouraged to voice concerns to school administrators |
| HVAC Status | No significant issues reported, temperatures stable at 75-76 degrees |
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Additional Resources
- Fox 13 Memphis: Mother Claims AC Issue at Central High School Caused Daughter’s Collapse
- Action News 5: Central High Student Hospitalized After AC Issues
- MSN: Central High Experiencing AC Issues
- Fox 13 Memphis: Clarksdale High to Remain Virtual Due to AC Issues
- Wikipedia: Heat Exhaustion
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Heat Exhaustion
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
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