A month after a Clayton County student died during training in extreme heat, the district continues to cancel outdoor activities when the temperatures reach the high 90s.
The district said Wednesday it was cancelling outdoor activities for the day as well as for Thursday, including physical education classes, unstructured play and athletic practices.
“This decision has been made based on a review of weather forecasts and local reports which indicate temperatures and humidity levels may create heat-related conditions that could adversely affect students and staff,” the school system said in a statement. “Students and staff are advised to remain indoors in a cool environment.”
Clayton's decision comes as the school system continues to investigate the Aug. 13 death of 16-year-old Elite Scholars Academy student Imani Bell. The teen was doing basketball drills at the school when she collapsed and later died.
While outdoor activities have been cancelled or suspended for Wednesday, the district said scheduled athletic events for the day, such as junior varsity football games, will be played.
“Coaches must ensure that an ample water supply is available for participating student-athletes and that all players are sufficiently hydrated,” the school system said.
The district will decide Thursday morning whether to go forward with athletic events set for Thursday.
Thursday will be the fifth day this month the district has called off activities because of the heat.
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