Spring in Manitoba has a way of sneaking up on us. One minute, there’s snow melting on the sidewalk, and the next, your classroom feels more like a greenhouse than a learning space! And while you might not be able to touch the thermostat, there are still plenty of things you can do to beat the heat. 

These simple, energy-efficient strategies will help you create a comfortable classroom environment while modelling sustainable habits students can carry with them beyond the school walls. 

EMBRACE QUICK WINS 

Start with easy wins! During the hottest parts of the day, keep blinds or curtains closed to block out the sun’s rays. If your classroom doesn’t have curtains, a simple piece of cardboard or fabric can work wonders over a sun-facing window. 

Encourage students to dress in layers, which helps them stay comfortable as temperatures shift throughout the day. From cool mornings to warm afternoons (and the occasional chilly hallway), layering makes it easier to adapt. 

LET THAT BREEZE IN! 

There’s nothing like a bit of fresh air to wake up a classroom and help keep it cool. If you have operable windows, open them during the cooler parts of the day, like early mornings or late afternoons. You might even be able to create a cross-breeze by opening windows on opposite walls or a hallway door if it’s safe to do so. 

This doesn’t just help with temperature control; it also improves air quality and can boost focus and alertness. Let students know how airflow affects their comfort and concentration. 

RETHINK YOUR LAYOUT 

Believe it or not, the way your classroom is arranged can make a big difference. Try moving desks or activity spaces out of direct sunlight and hot spots to reduce that midday heat. Notice where cooler zones naturally form in the room and turn them into reading nooks or quiet workstations. 

Even soft furnishings like rugs, curtains, or wall hangings can help absorb heat and reduce glare, making your space feel a little cooler. 

HEAD OUTSIDE  

On those perfect sunny-but-not-too-hot days, take learning outdoors. Whether it’s a group discussion under a tree, solo journaling on the grass, or independent reading on a playground bench, fresh air can re-energize your students (and you!). Outdoor learning also creates a great opportunity to talk about nature, the environment, and how we can work with our surroundings instead of against them. 

BRING ENERGY EFFICIENCY INTO THE CONVERSATION 

These cooling strategies are not just practical; they’re teachable moments. Use them to start conversations about energy use at school and home.  

You can ask questions like the following:  

• Why do we close the blinds in the afternoon?  

• How does opening a window help us avoid using fans or air conditioning?  

• What habits can we bring home to help our families save energy? 

 

KEEP LEARNING COOL 

Explore lessons and free classroom activities from Generation E to help guide these discussions. Activities like our Energy Efficiency Checklist or My Pledge to the Planet give students a chance to reflect on their habits and commit to small but meaningful changes. 

Need a little support bringing these ideas to life? Book a free visit from our Outreach and Engagement Coordinator or check out our ready-to-use classroom resources!