Winter Is Really Here!

It is obvious that we are having a colder and snowier winter than we have had in past years. We have already missed one day of school and it appears this week may have the potential to miss another day between the snow and cold.

As a rule of thumb, we always try to keep the school open because to close is very disruptive to the educational process and also may disrupt the routine and lives of families where both parents work. The process for making the decision to close school has already begun. We continually monitor the weather forecast and the National Weather Service radio broadcasts, talk to area school districts about emergency plans as they relate to the weather. I will be out early in the morning (3:30 am) to monitor the road and weather conditions and to consult with area superintendents.

The timeline for any decision to close school should be made shortly after 5:00 am so there is adequate time to notify parents, employees and the media about school closing. The criteria for closing school is based primarily on the safety of the students and road conditions; snow, temperature, the availability of bus service, heat and electricity in the buildings and access to the schools. If there is a way to safely bring our students to school we will hold classes. The other variable that we face is the decision made by our high school. Generally if the high school is closed we have no choice but to close. There is a growing tendency in our area for all schools to close rather that let each district make an independent decision.

If school is closed this is the procedure: media is contacted to include District 66 in the area closing list, a phone call is made to employees and parents regarding the status of the school. While this is never an easy decision, please understand that whatever the decision, it is made with the safety of our students in mind.