(WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- A number of Chicago Public School buildings are having air conditioning problems impacting thousands of students and staff.
It’s a problem all over the city, according to Chicago Teachers Union President Jesse Sharkey.
"I believe it's very widespread. The heating ventilation here air conditioning of Chicago Public Schools-well, it's better than some," he said.
"For example, it's a lot better than the Catholic School system. We're talking about buildings, where we need to make a significant investment of upgrade of infrastructure."
Sharkey said he's heard of classrooms with temperatures above 90 degrees.
"My heart goes out to the students and teachers that are going to work in that environment. It's really hard to pay attention when you are in a situation like that," he said.
"Kids get exhausted more quickly. It's hard to concentrate. It's really hard to learn."
Sharkey said while you can’t snap your fingers and upgrade the hating and cooling systems, CPS could make a plan to do so.
He noted the city is sitting on $1.4 billion in COVID relief funds, which the teachers unions said can be used to keep classrooms cooler.
In response, CPS said air conditioning is required for every classroom and that every CPS building is different and may use different systems to meet heating and cooling needs.
Furthermore, CPS said it is aware of air conditioning issues at some schools and is working on addressing the situation.
Morgan Park High School and Clemente High School's air conditioning systems were repaired Wednesday night and is fully functioning. Simeon Career Academy High School has cooling units that have maintained temperatures at 75 degrees.
Skinner West is currently under repair.
"Chicago Public Schools (CPS) prioritizes the safety and well-being of our students and staff. All active classrooms throughout the district have had window units or central air since 2016," said a statement.
"Underutilized schools may not have air conditioning in every room, but all occupied/used spaces have cooling systems."
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