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Parents Steaming Over No A\C In 37 Baltimore Co. Schools

BALTIMORE (WJZ)—Parents are steaming in Baltimore County after a lack air conditioning at 37 schools.

"It puts a serious strain on single parents, parents who make minimum wage," said Daria Fletcher.

"These schools are like greenhouses now. We cannot have children sitting in a hot-car scenario. That, if we continue doing is institutionalized child abuse," said Lily Rowe.

Right now, 37 county schools lack air conditioning--a number that's not shrinking fast enough.

Under a new policy, schools close when the heat index goes above 90 degrees.

This comes after many teachers and parents posted pictures of thermometers showing some classrooms above 105 degrees.

It's become a hot-button political issue with the Governor Larry Hogan demanding the county install portable air conditioners immediately.

County Executive Kevin Kamenetz says that's not possible.

"These schools are more than 40-years-old, so is the wiring. It would cost us as much money to re-do the wiring and install temporary units that don't last a long period of time, than it would to put in permanent central air," said Kamenetz.

Governor Hogan is set to make a major announcement Wednesday. It's believed he will order all Maryland schools wait until after Labor Day to open.

RELATEDGov. Hogan Expected To Mandate Md. School Year Begin After Labor Day

"It's not about the governor or the executive or anybody. This is about our kids," said Senator  Johnny Ray Salling.

The comptroller says a longer summer vacation could also make Maryland millions in additional tax dollars.

In Baltimore County, though, the biggest priority is getting students back to class now.

"They want to be in school. My kids want to be in school, and they're not," said Alice Kelly.

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