Minneapolis School Will Be Open, Despite Heat

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) - Despite oppressive heat, Minneapolis public schools again will be open Tuesday.

The Minneapolis School District kicked off the new school year Monday as Twin Cities temperatures soared to a record 97 degrees.

The district says parents have the option to keep their children at home if they feel it's necessary. After-school activities - both indoor and outdoor - will be canceled.

Minneapolis public schools have 18 buildings that lack air conditioning and another 11 with only limited cooling, so schools are providing water to help keep students and staff cool and hydrated.

Industrial fans owned by the district have been distributed to schools.  Families are encouraged to send water bottles to school with students.

Temperatures in Minneapolis are again expected to reach the mid-90s Tuesday.