san antonio tx, August 19, 2025
News Summary
The San Antonio Independent School District (SAISD) deals with multiple air conditioning complaints across various campuses, affecting student comfort and learning. Major schools like Edison High, Jefferson High, and Graebner Elementary report severe HVAC issues, exacerbated by ongoing construction. SAISD struggles with aging infrastructure and estimates $584 million needed for upgrades. While complaints are reportedly lower this year, significant historical HVAC failures have led to administrative changes, prompting the district to explore mitigation strategies to ensure student safety amidst these challenges.
San Antonio, Texas – The San Antonio Independent School District (SAISD) is currently facing a series of complaints regarding air conditioning issues across multiple campuses, affecting the comfort and learning environment for students. Since the beginning of the school year on August 13, 2025, the district has received numerous reports of cooling problems at various schools, with seven high-priority calls logged specifically related to air conditioning failures.
Notable campuses experiencing significant HVAC challenges include Edison High School, Jefferson High School, Graebner Elementary, and Woodlawn Academy. Complicating the situation, three of these schools are undergoing construction, which adds difficulty to the management of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Additional schools reporting air conditioning issues are Maverick Elementary School, Burbank High School, and Young Women’s Leadership Academy.
This is not the first time SAISD has grappled with HVAC complications. The district has been dealing with such issues for the past two academic years, highlighted by a week-long shutdown in January 2024 caused by HVAC failures. Additionally, SAISD found itself as the only district in San Antonio to close during an infrastructure-related crisis in January 2022. A systemic pattern has emerged, prompting the district to explore mitigation strategies, including the use of industrial portable air conditioning units and relocating students to cooler areas as necessary.
According to a spokesperson for the district, the start of this school year has seen below-average HVAC complaints relative to previous years, though officials are still encouraging schools to promptly report any HVAC issues that differ from state-recommended temperature setpoints. Despite these efforts, the district faces significant challenges due to the aging infrastructure of its facilities. SAISD estimates that approximately $584 million is needed to update its mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems to meet industry standards, including HVAC upgrades.
Significantly, the HVAC difficulties experienced in January 2024 led to major administrative changes, including the resignation of Deputy Superintendent Ken Thompson and Chief of Operations Mike Eaton, which indicates deeper systemic problems within the district’s facility management practices. Furthermore, SAISD has historically faced challenges with its heating systems, particularly during cold weather events that have previously led to school closures. Superintendent Jaime Aquino has pointed to the age of many district buildings as a contributing factor to persistent HVAC issues.
In light of the recent complaints and the ongoing struggles with HVAC systems, SAISD is actively working to ensure the comfort and safety of its students. The administration has underscored their commitment to preparing facilities for adverse weather conditions, as seen in preparation efforts before the reopening following winter break, despite the past challenges that have arisen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What HVAC issues is SAISD experiencing?
SAISD is experiencing air conditioning problems across various campuses, with high-priority calls regarding these issues since the start of the school year.
Which schools are affected by HVAC problems?
Schools currently reporting HVAC issues include Edison High School, Jefferson High School, Graebner Elementary, Woodlawn Academy, Maverick Elementary School, Burbank High School, and Young Women’s Leadership Academy.
What measures is SAISD taking to address the complaints?
SAISD is using industrial portable air conditioning units and relocating students to cooler areas. They are also encouraging schools to report any temperature issues that fall outside state guidelines.
How much funding does SAISD need to fix its HVAC systems?
SAISD estimates that about $584 million is required to upgrade its mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems, including HVAC improvements.
What historical issues has SAISD faced regarding HVAC?
SAISD has faced HVAC system failures leading to school closures, including notable shutdowns in January 2022 and January 2024. These issues have been exacerbated by the age of the district’s buildings.
Key Features of HVAC Issues in SAISD
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Complaints Started | August 13, 2025 |
| Affected Schools | Edison High School, Jefferson High School, Graebner Elementary, Woodlawn Academy, Maverick Elementary School, Burbank High School, Young Women’s Leadership Academy |
| Funding Needed | $584 million for HVAC and related systems upgrades |
| Previous HVAC Issues | Closures due to failures in January 2022 and January 2024 |
| Mitigation Measures | Industrial portable units and relocation of students |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
San Antonio Schools Prepare for President’s Day Weekend
San Antonio ISD Prepares Schools for Cold Weather Safety
SAISD Students Return to Class After Weather Delay
San Antonio Schools Closed for Safety Amid Cold Weather
Additional Resources
- KSAT News
- Wikipedia: HVAC
- San Antonio Express-News
- Google Search: San Antonio Independent School District
- News 4 San Antonio
- Google Scholar: School infrastructure crisis
- KSAT News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Texas education system
- KSAT News
- Google News: SAISD school closures
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
