Guidelines for School Delays and Closings
We watch the weather very closely in the winter months. On nights when weather is forecasted to cause any issues that might impact the safety of our students arriving at school, we are actively assessing the situation by 4:45 a.m. If we are able to determine school closings the night before, we will let you know about it when the decision is made.
Wind Chill Warning
For cold weather, the main indicator is wind chill factor. If the wind chill factor generates a Wind Chill Warning (-35 sustained wind chill), we will close for the day or may consider a delayed start. We will typically hold school when there is a Wind Chill Advisory.
Snow or Ice Events
Delaying or closing school is a decision that is not made lightly. There are many implications so we work to ensure we are making the best decision possible based on the information we have. Start of school may be delayed or schools may be closed if conditions are considered to be dangerous. How we make the decision:
- We review the predicted weather patterns through various weather websites and news outlets.
- We consult with the National Weather Service.
- We look closely at the timing of the snow/ice, how much is predicted, and how it will impact getting students to/from school.
- We work closely with bus carriers when making this decision. Our staff and/or bus drivers will go out and drive the roads to determine if they are safe and passable.
- We are in conversation with other superintendents in neighboring school districts to compare reports.
How You'll Be Notified
- We will post the closing on our District Website. A banner notification will appear in red above the rotating images at the top of the District and school websites.
- We will also post the closing on our District Facebook page, and via Twitter.
- We will use our electronic messaging system to call, email, and text families about the change in the school schedule. Opt-in to receive text messages in the event of an emergency such as a school closing or delay.
- Download the District Mobile App to receive notifications regarding school closures and delays.
- Local media will be contacted.
Outdoor Recess
- Please send your child to school with appropriate winter clothing to ensure they stay warm at recess.
- Plan on your child going out for recess when the temperature including wind chill is above zero degrees.
Other Important Information
- On days when we have a delayed start time as a result of weather, there will be no AM 4K, no AM Head Start and no morning early childhood classes and breakfast will not be served. Here is a list of normal school start times.
- If there is a 2-hour delay, busses will run exactly 2 hours later than their normal times, including the Metro Bus.
- Students who attend classes at more than one school should report to their home school when there is a 2-hour delay.
Make-up Minutes/Days
- The District has two (2) inclement weather days built into the school calendar. Should the District use two inclement weather days this school year, and anticipate a need for additional weather days (e.g., severe cold weather over multiple days), the District will revisit whether or not to implement asynchronous learning days rather than adding minutes to the daily schedule.
Finally, if there is ever a time that we hold school and you do not feel it is in the best interest of your child to attend based on your assessment of the weather, parents must call the school and we will excuse those absences.