The climate situation in educational centers across the Community of Madrid continues to raise concerns. The discussion revolves around whether the responsibility for climate control lies with the regional administration or the local municipalities. A plenary session in Getafe addressed this issue, estimating that climatizing all municipal schools could cost around 8 million euros.
The Federation of Associations of Mothers and Fathers of Students ‘Giner de los Ríos’ has warned of the "health risk" posed by high classroom temperatures to students, teachers, and staff. According to their data, temperatures reaching 27 degrees Celsius already cause "deterioration" in learning and concentration, increasing health risks thereafter. The situation is particularly critical at the ‘Ramón y Cajal’ special education center, where classrooms experience "overheating for hours".
The FAPA has requested protection from the Ombudsman due to numerous parental complaints and has criticized previous statements from Community of Madrid officials suggesting solutions like paper fans.
“"If the City Council is responsible for roofs, boilers, and windows, it must also assume the actions to guarantee adequate conditions against the heat."
The PP spokesperson, Antonio José Mesa, argued that school maintenance falls under local competence according to the Law on the Bases of Local Regimes, asserting that the council should handle climate control. The PP estimated the total investment at 8 million euros, comparing it to other municipal expenses and pointing to a "lack of political will".
Meanwhile, the spokesperson for Más Madrid-Compromiso con Getafe, Ana González Mariscal, attributed the responsibility to the Community of Madrid, suggesting that 0.5% of its budget would suffice to climatize all centers. The Councilor for Education in Getafe, Ángeles García, also urged the Community to act, offering that the city council would implement the climate control if they received the 8 million euros.
García highlighted municipal investments made in response to the region's inaction, including facade renovations with thermal insulation, replacement of 70% of window panes, and tree planting. Additionally, the installation of awnings and porches is planned, and the council is considering installing water fountains in schools.
