It’s a popular question for school superintendents across the area, “are we going to have a snow day?” During my interview process to become your superintendent, I was often asked about snow days (and not just by students). Now, as we approach colder weather, I wanted to share with you the process our team will follow, so I can answer that question promptly if winter weather approaches.

Typically, we have advanced knowledge when potentially strong winter weather systems are headed our way.  We begin to watch the forecast a few days out, monitoring local TV stations, WeatherBug, Weather Channel, and the National Weather Service, gathering the best information.

If a significant storm is headed our way and we know travel will be unsafe the following morning, we will try to make the decision the night before about closing school.   But as is the case, we will usually wait until the early morning hours to evaluate the situation.

On those days, it is a very early start for many in the District. As a team, we will assess the roads and sidewalks, talk with Oakwood Safety, consult other school districts, and monitor the weather.  When deciding to delay or close school, several variables will be considered:

• The timing of the storm about the start of school;

• The amount of snow and ice received/expected;

• The temperature and wind chill factor;

• The extended forecast prediction;

• The ability of road crews to clear crosswalks and homeowners to clear sidewalks; and,

• The conditions at the school buildings, i.e., Are the boilers working?

If we decide to delay or cancel school, we will try to share that information as soon as possible.  We alert local media, send an email, text, and voice notification, post to all our District social media pages (Facebook, X, and Instagram), and share on our District website.  We understand you may have to make alternate arrangements for the day, and we try to provide you with the information as quickly as possible. 

Our students' safety is and always will remain our top priority. While we believe it is essential for our students to engage in school activities actively, we will always consider their safety first.  I realize that I may not make the best decision even with all the information provided.  Please do not hesitate to contact me if you would like to talk about our weather decision procedures.