Inclement and Hazardous Weather Information

When the winter season is upon us there is the possibility of inclement weather affecting school opening. We understand that our decision to open or close schools in severe weather has a significant impact on families. The safety and security of our students and staff are our highest priority.

The decision to close schools is based on the best information available at the time the decision is made. Although we do our 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 severe 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 district Superintendents

Who makes the decision?

• The Superintendent 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 a.m.

How is the public notified?

• You will be notified by a direct phone call from USD 264, using the School Messenger calling system. 
• The notice is also posted on the local TV stations.

What Can You Do?

Be prepared. When the weather is threatening the night before, please have plans for the possibility that school may be closed.