NEW AIR CONDITIONING UNITS AT ST. VINCENT KEEPING KIDS COOL

While students and teachers are sweating it out in classrooms around the area, those at St. Vincent de Paul grade school in Cape Girardeau are enjoying newly air-conditioned classrooms.

"We're just cool," said Principal Rita Fisher.

Ten of the school's classrooms received air conditioning over the summer; the whole school is now cool.

Money to purchase and install the units was donated by the Knights of Columbus, the Home and School and parents.

"We are really excited that we were able to do this. We can have school all day," Fisher said. "The children are more attentive and can accomplish a lot more when they are comfortable."

Besides, she said, students and teachers are used to being cool.

"Society is not like it was when we were young; the children are accustomed to air conditioning everywhere they go."

Fisher said it was a choice to use the money for air conditioning.

"There are always other places for the money, but it's a known fact that kids learn better when they are comfortable. We expect to accomplish more in the month of September."

Plus, she said, teachers and students are happy. "It's just easier to work. It seems to be a very positive thing. I've heard no complaints."