We’ve received questions about why there was a 2-hour delay on Tuesday and Wednesday this week but not on Thursday. Deciding whether to delay or close schools is a complex process involving multiple factors, all centered on student safety.
To provide clarity and increased transparency, we’ve added a more detailed explanation of the decision-making process to our “Preparing for Winter Weather” communication. Visit our Communication Page and scroll down to “Weather Alerts: School Closings & Delays” at the bottom of the page for more details.
Here’s what went into this week’s decisions:
Tuesday: Road conditions were the primary concern following winter weather over the weekend. Extra time and daylight allowed us to ensure conditions were safe.
Wednesday: Extreme cold temperatures raised concerns about starting school buses. A 2-hour delay allowed extra time to address potential issues. There were no issues on Wednesday, so we were able to open on time Thursday.
It’s important to note that while temperature is a factor, it’s not the sole consideration. There’s no specific temperature that automatically triggers a closure or delay. Ultimately, decisions are made with safety as the top priority. We also want to highlight that student access to meals is a factor, as breakfast is not provided on days with delayed openings.
Finally, remember: parents can always decide to keep their child home if they feel conditions are unsafe. Up to ten (10) parent-requested excused absences are allowed each year.
Thank you for your understanding and support as we navigate weather challenges to keep everyone safe.