Former Alabama and current Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts is stepping up to provide ten Philadelphia schools with air conditioning units.
Hurts is cutting a $200,000 check that will help schools that still do not have AC including Clara Barton, Gloria Casarez, Castor Gardens, D. Newlin Fell, Thomas Finletter, Fitler Academics Plus, Benjamin Franklin/Science Leadership Academy, Edward Gideon, A.S. Jenks, and Theodore Roosevelt schools.
“I believe every child deserves a comfortable space to learn and grow,” Hurts said.
“Philadelphia has given me so much, and I’m excited to give back to the community in a way that supports our future leaders. Ensuring our schools are equipped with essential resources like air-conditioning is one step toward helping our students achieve their very best.”
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Superintendent of the Philadelphia school district Tony B. Watlington Sr. has said previously that many schools will not be air conditioned until 2027, but Hurts is stepping up in a big way to push that estimation up.
“This contribution not only enhances the physical infrastructure of our schools but also demonstrates a meaningful investment in our student’s well-being and academic success,” Watlington told the Philadelphia Inquirer. “As temperatures continue to rise in Philadelphia, we know that air-conditioning can significantly influence the learning experience.”
Oz Hill, the district’s chief operating officer also weighed in saying how critical Hurts’ donation is.
“This directly impacts the urgent need for climate-controlled and environmentally suitable educational facilities that enable improved academic achievement in schools that have struggled through the warmer months. This initiative not only improves current student attendance and learning, but it also paves the way for future upgrades throughout the district,” said Hill.
Michael Brauner is a Senior Sports Analyst and Contributing Writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @MBraunerWNSP
