Walk a mile in our hot classrooms

Here’s an idea: When the Legislature convenes in January, turn off the air conditioning. Just for a week. Just as an exercise in empathy. Maybe once the lawmakers who set the budget for Hawaii’s public schools experience what it’s like to try to learn and work in an uncomfortable physical environment, they’ll be inspired to get more creative about solving a budgetary problem that’s been allowed to persist for decades.

We know, we know — they’ll never do it. The computers might malfunction if it gets too hot, or the staff might revolt, or a million other things might go wrong. All valid concerns. Air conditioning is essential. For them. But apparently not for the students and teachers who are sweltering in too many of Hawaii’s public schools.