Middle school gym gets air conditioning

For the first time in the history of Appomattox Middle School (AMS), its gymnasium is equipped with an HVAC air conditioning unit, much to the appreciation of students and staff.

According to Heath and Physical Education (PE) teacher Doug Marshall, the gymnasium was added to the school in the 1950s. Middle School Principal Julie Amos said the gymnasium underwent a remodeling in the 1990s.

Amos and PE teacher Clint Dodson said that the new HVAC installation work began in August, and after a testing period, was officially activated Oct. 12. The main unit is located on the roof, and two large blue inflatable vents are placed hanging from the ceiling of the gymnasium.

The blue vents are covered in cloth material, Dodson said, to protect it from damage caused by objects such as athletic balls striking the exterior. The vents expand when the system is turned on and deflates when turned off.

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