Dear Families,
Each winter, families, students, and community members often inquire how the decision to close or delay school is made and communicated. Closing or delaying school is difficult on our families; we will utilize this option only when necessary for safety.
When we determine to close or delay school we work collaboratively with Nelson’s Bus Service, local township snow plow drivers and other area school districts. We make the call as early as possible. If conditions are not clear until the day or the weather event, the process initiates at approximately 3:00 AM. This is done to better assess the road conditions of the district as a whole, and account for in-city and rural routes. If the wind chill is sustained at -25° to -30°F or a Wind Chill Warning is issued, we will also consider closing, to ensure the safety of our students who may walk or wait at bus stops. Of our 1,960 students, approximately 840 ride buses and approximately 1,120 walk, drive or are driven to school.
If school is delayed or closed, our goal is to make a decision by 5:30 AM, at the latest. We will broadcast the decision on television, radio stations, on our website and Facebook page. We will call, email and text a message to staff and families. If school is delayed due to inclement weather, morning 4K and early childhood sessions are canceled.
In addition to delaying or canceling school, there may be instances where we believe it is in the best interest of the safety of children to have an early release from school or to cancel after-school activities. When either of these situations occur, the after-school Parks and Recreation childcare programming at our elementary schools is also canceled.
Dr. Caroline Pate-Hefty, Superintendent
