Teachers and students rally against a proposed hyperscale AI data center near an Arden elementary school

Dozens of teachers, students, parents, and local leaders gathered in Arden, Florida, near Saddle View Elementary School to rally against "Project Tango," a proposed hyperscale AI data center slated for construction next to the campus. Organized by the Classroom Teachers Association, the event provided a platform for educators and students to voice their concerns publicly ahead of a crucial decision by the Palm Beach County Commission. Speakers at the rally, including Representative Meg Weinburger and congressional candidate Victoria Doyle, urged the Palm Beach County Commission to reject the project. Weinburger highlighted a lack of nearby fire services as a significant safety concern. While environmental issues such as water usage and power demand were mentioned, attendees' primary worry centered on potential noise pollution from the facility and its impact on students' learning and well-being at school and home. Classroom Teachers Association President Gordon Longhofer specifically warned that hyperscale AI data centers could negatively affect children's attention, learning efficiency, language development, memory, academic performance, and sleep. Students from Saddle View Elementary also participated, expressing their desire for the data center to be built in a remote location rather than next to their school or residential areas. Organizers emphasized the timely nature of the rally, as the Palm Beach County Commission is scheduled to vote on the proposal on April 23. They are advocating for either a complete rejection of the project or a delay in the decision to allow for more comprehensive studies on its potential effects on the community and students.