Under the scorching rays of the sun, Friends Academy students sit sweltering under the intense heat. For three consecutive days, we experienced a heatwave that had affected student lives. Due to the discomfort, weakness, and heat exhaustion caused, students weren’t able to focus in class. Most significantly, Nassau County even officially cancelled all sports practices.

“In my 22 years I have never seen practices get cancelled like this before,” says Aggie Jones. 

The heat waves this long have never occurred for this many consecutive days. Not only was this heat wave continuous, but also the excessive amount of heat stayed in the high 90s throughout the duration of the 3 days. Practices were cancelled for almost all sports and games were delayed which caused unpreparation for the upcoming games. Sports teams have to have a certain amount of practice before their first game, and the beginning of the season is crucial to maintain their level of play.

“I drove past each school and I’m used to seeing all the kids playing outside, but all the fields were empty,” observes a 10th grade class athlete. It is unusual to see  because our school is so athletic and spirited. Friends Academy students and faculty are curious to know if these heat waves will happen again and continue to affect our community.