A growing number of school districts are choosing to start their academic years in July or August. This change means students may face extremely hot weather as they return to their routines.

In July 2026, temperatures in Phoenix reached a striking 117 degrees Fahrenheit, or 47 degrees Celsius. Despite these conditions, children attended school, participated in recess, and also engaged in after-school sports like baseball.

The Conversation, an independent nonprofit news organization, highlights these impacts. The goal is to provide readers with well-researched facts and analysis. This information helps the public understand the complexities of issues like extreme heat affecting school schedules.