Power outages cause issues for distance learning
SOLEDAD, Calif. (KION) When the power went out on Michael Aguilar's first day of senior year, he took matters into his own hands. "I had email most of my teachers and let them know I wouldn't make it to class," said Aguilar.
Aguilar said his teachers were understanding. Over 1,800 PG&E customers in Soledad lost power last Wednesday. PG&E officials said the power outage happened because of an equipment issue, but the shutoff shines a light on the difficulty distance learners could face this wildfire season.
"We are getting very close to what we call 'peak wildfire season.' Typically that's during the months of September and October," said PG&E spokesperson, Jeff Smith.
Smith said it's during these months that PG&E may choose to cut power due to wildfire risk. Conditions like excessive heat, dryness and wind can all be factors. The forecast will indicate when they need to tell schools to prepare.
"What we would aim to do is to give them at least two days notice that a Public Safety Power Shutofff may exist, given what our meteorologists are seeing in respect to weather conditions. We would give them regular updates after that," said Smith.
Soledad Unified School District has already gotten a head start. They gave students WiFi hotspots that should allow them access at any time.
"Even when the electricity goes out, a hotspot would still allow us to send a message to families. If something like this were to occur again there is the means for some independent work," said Soledad Unified School District Superintendent, Tim Vanoli.
If power were to go out for an extended amount of time, students may have to turn to their textbooks.
Aguilar picked his up at Soledad High School, Friday. "It's been a little bit stressful trying to figure everything out. So far, the teachers haven't expected us to be perfect or anything. They have a lot of patience this year," said Aguilar.
To learn more about how to prepare for a Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS), visit www.pge.com.
