Cool School campaign under way

West Amwell wants air conditioning units for every classroom.

By: Linda Seida
   WEST AMWELL — At first glance, the timing of an effort by West Amwell Elementary School to raise funds for air conditioning units to relieve the summer heat couldn’t be worse.
   After all, heaters have been running, and the price of fuel is on everyone’s minds. And Christmas is right around the corner, putting another big drain on bank accounts.
   But a few forward-thinking donors have been able to look past the cold and the season to next summer when students will be sweltering again in the school’s classrooms if a change isn’t made. They’ve reached into their pockets to contribute to the Cool School Campaign, a fund-raising effort with a goal of $25,000 to outfit every classroom with an air conditioning unit.
   Last summer, the heat was so bad, students were sent home early several times, according to Vice Principal Rick Falkenstein. To alleviate the discomfort and health problems students have experienced, the administration, Board of Education and PTO banded together to promote the Cool School Campaign. The $25,000 goal includes funds for mounting brackets and necessary wiring.
   "The fact is, it’s the right thing to do for the students," Mr. Falkenstein said.
   In addition to making the classrooms more comfortable when the mercury is pushing 100 degrees, the air conditioning units also will help prevent health problems for a number of students.
   The school has "many more students with allergies than ever before, some with severe allergies," Mr. Falkenstein said. "It’s a health hazard for some kids. Fans just blow (allergens) around."
   The new air conditioning units will provide an educational benefit, too.
   "This type of environment is not conducive to learning," the Cool School Committee said in its letter to parents.
   The PTO kicked off the fund drive with a $5,000 donation. Last week, the day after students brought letters home explaining the Cool School Campaign, "two significant contributions" were made totaling $750, Mr. Falkenstein said. The school hopes to have the work completed and the units in place by April.
   "We were conscious of doing it over the winter to get better contracting rates," Mr. Falkenstein said. "We want it done by spring. It’s long overdue."
   Individual and corporate donations are tax deductible and will be recognized with a plaque.
   A gold endowment of $1,000 would enable one classroom to be outfitted with an air conditioner and a mounting bracket and provide funds toward the cost of electrical wiring. A silver endowment of $500 would pay for one air conditioner. A bronze endowment of $250 would help pay for electrical wiring. Smaller sums are welcome, too.
   "Anything is appreciated," Mr. Falkenstein said.
   Donations should be mailed to West Amwell Elementary School, 1417 Route 179, Lambertville, N.J., 08530. Make checks payable to West Amwell School.
   For more information, call the school at 397-0819.