INCLEMENT WEATHER & SCHOOL CLOSING INFORMATION

WHO IS WATCHING THE WEATHER? The Superintendent of Schools carefully watches the weather conditions during the snow season.  In addition, the superintendent uses many other resources prior to making any decision. Other local superintendents, the two bus companies, online radar, online road conditions from the Department of Transportation, Wabasha County Road Engineer, weather radio, individuals plowing for the townships, and actually driving the roads all contribute to the information that is used to make decisions on delayed starts, early dismissals, and school closings. We must give careful consideration to the most dangerous bus routes in the district.  So, even if it looks clear on your street, dangerous conditions may exist in other parts of our district.

WHAT FACTORS ARE CONSIDERED WHEN MAKING THE DECISION TO CLOSE SCHOOL? 

The safety of all School District children and staff is our primary concern in making our decision. In deciding whether children and staff will be safe, we look at the following factors:

• information on road conditions from the administrators and from the county,
• including whether roads are icy, snow-covered, or excessively drifting;
• time snow starts and the amount of snow; weather predictions;
• building conditions (e.g., whether we have power and heat);
• parking lot conditions; and
• temperature and wind-chill

WHO MAKES THE DECISION?  The Superintendent of Schools is responsible for the final decision, based on the above factors and recommendations. 
WHEN IS THE DECISION MADE?  Whenever possible, the decision will be made by 6:00 a.m. for proper notification of radio and television stations.      WHAT SHOULD PARENTS/GUARDIANS DO WHEN THEY HAVE CONCERNS ABOUT THE WEATHER?
Parents/guardians should tune into one of the above-mentioned media outlets to check on the status of their school. No matter what decision is made by the School District, the safety of your children is your top concern. If you determine the weather conditions or circumstances at your residence are such that it would be unsafe to send your children to school, we respect your right to make that decision. Such absences from school will be considered excused.                                                                                                                                                                                                                HOW IS THE PUBLIC NOTIFIED?  Radio and TV are the official media for notifying all students and parents as to whether or not schools are closed or delayed because of weather conditions.  We will also announce early school dismissals.  Listen/view the following stations for up-to-date information on late starts, early dismissals, and school closings: