With rising weather concerns because of climate change, the University Interscholastic League changed weather recommendations for students’ safety, so student-athletes and organizations altered schedules starting the 2024-2025 academic year.
“By not being able to rehearse in the heat, we haven’t built up that stamina we need for those moments,” band director Dexx Moore said. “It’s inconsistent for UIL to say that it is OK to perform in XYZ heat conditions, but you can’t practice in [different] heat conditions.”
According to UIL, the changes are suggestions and up to each district to decide level of implementation, and Aledo ISD district administrators decided to require these changes for student safety.
While each organization works to modify for the changes, the guidelines have offered a challenge for students.
“It changed my daily order of operations,” sophomore Ruby Shaver said. “It’s hurting my sleep schedule just because of homework and stuff. I’m staying up late and waking up early.”
Even though Moore said the band has less time to practice, they are “getting more consistent reps” in each day as opposed to having a rest day in the middle of the week.
Along with band, other UIL sports and organizations also had to change their practice schedules in compliance with the guidelines.
“They were really good because it means we’re not playing in the scolding heat, especially [since] golfing is an outdoor sport,” varsity gold player sophomore Kylie Kirkland said. “It sometimes can get really hot, so it made it to where the coaches can’t make us practice when it’s so hot.”
For parents, the changes in schedules have allowed for more consistency in practice times.
“The changes are good,” band parent Jake Albin said. “I like being able to get up and be consistent at 6:30 a.m. and be at practice while it’s cool. It keeps everybody’s attention, but I also like the consistency of every morning [is] kind of the same thing.”
For more information on UIL guidelines and procedures, head to the district athletic website here.
