CLARKSBURG, Mass. — The forecast for unusually high temperatures and humidity on Thursday has prompted a planned early release for two local schools. 

 

Clarksburg School and Gabriel Abbott Memorial School in the town of Florida will both release students at 12:30 p.m.

 

The National Weather Service in Albany, N.Y., is warning that the heat index could approach advisory criteria by Thursay afternoon.

 

Superintendent John Franzoni said the lack of air conditioning in the two schools led to the decision to schedule a half day. 

 

Both schools were built in the 1960s and are lacking modern ventilation and air conditioning systems. They are part of the Northern Berkshire School Union which also includes Emma Miller Memorial School in Savoy and Rowe Elementary.

 

"Savoy and Rowe have air conditioning systems that provide a safe learning space in the classrooms which will allow them to remain open for a full day on Thursday," Franzoni wrote in an email. "Neither Clarksburg or Florida have the ability to control temperature in the school buildings, creating oppressive heat conditions tomorrow [Thursday] afternoon."

 

Temperatures have been in the 80s since Sunday and Accuweather is predicting a high of 91 degrees on Thursday with a "realfeel" of 96. The temperature on Main Street in North Adams was 80 degrees at 8 p.m. on Wednesday. 

 

The School Committee will meet as usual on Thursday evening in the public library area, which has air conditioning.

 

Pittsfield High School also has postponed its Meet the Teacher Night scheduled for Thursday because of the high temperatures. It has been moved to Sept. 26.