Hazardous Weather Information
The winter season is upon us, and with it comes the possibility of inclement weather affecting school opening. We understand that our decision to open or close schools in bad weather has a big impact on families. The safety and security of our students and staff is our highest priority.
The decision to close schools is based on the best information available at the time the decision is made. Although the staff and superintendent do their best in this process, we know that often no perfect decision exists. IF WE ARE OPEN AND YOU DO NOT FEEL THAT IT IS SAFE FOR YOUR CHILD TO ATTEND SCHOOL, THEN PLEASE DO NOT SEND YOUR CHILD. Please note the reason for absence is the inclement weather. You can always wait until the bad weather passes and then bring your child to school for the remainder of the day.
How do we make school closing decisions?
The decision to open or close the schools in bad weather is based on a careful analysis of all the relevant factors, including:
- Road conditions throughout the school district
- Amount of snow and ice
- Whether precipitation is expected to continue
- Building conditions
- Parking lot and sidewalk conditions at the schools
- Temperatures and wind chill factors
- Collaboration with surrounding school Superintendents
Who makes the decision?
- The Superintendent of Schools is responsible for the final decision, based on the above factors and input from the transportation and facilities departments, and collaboration with surrounding school Superintendents.
When is the decision made?
- The decision is typically made between 5:00 - 6:00 AM
How is the public notified?
- You will be notified by a direct phone call from USD 263, using the School Messenger calling system.
- The notice is also posted on the local TV stations (Ch. 3, 10, 12) along with local radio stations-KFDI, KICT, KYQQ, KKRD, KRBB, KEYN, KFBZ, KFH
What Can You Do?
Be prepared! When weather is threatening the night before, please have plans for the possibility that school may be closed.
