Weather-Related Delay & Cancellation Decision Process

Monitoring Weather Forecasts

We review short- and long-term weather forecasts leading up to potential events. Since February of 2025, we have subscribed to the BAM Weather App, which provides access to high-resolution forecasts and direct communication with a meteorologist for district-specific insights.

Collaborative Team Involvement

Key staff include the superintendent, transportation director, and head mechanic. Team members live in various parts of the district, allowing us to assess conditions across the whole area

On-the-Ground Observations

Team members check road conditions the night before and early morning of the school day. We monitor snow, ice, fog, visibility, and known problem areas on bus routes.  Our building maintenance team also monitors the conditions of parking lots and sidewalks on school properties.

Cold Weather Considerations

The district may delay school when extreme cold presents safety or operational concerns, particularly when National Weather Service advisories, watches, or warnings are issued for dangerously cold air.  As a general guideline, this includes a real air temperature approaching 0°F or below combined with a wind chill at −10°F or lower, with additional consideration given to factors such as road conditions, bus reliability, and building heating capabilities.

External Communications and Coordination

School officials make decisions about school closing based on weather information, directly checking road conditions, communication with street departments, police agencies, and neighboring school districts. A School Closing or Delay will be announced as early as possible, but it is not always feasible to predict if a closing or delay is needed the night before. 

Decision Timeline

Evening prior: Monitoring and preliminary communication.  If there is evidence and confidence that conditions will not improve by morning, a “night before” decision can be made.   Early morning (5:00–6:00 AM): Road checks, consultation with BAM Weather, and coordination with staff and nearby districts. Final decision made by approximately 5:45–6:00 AM.
Our priority is always student and staff safety, and this process ensures that decisions are informed, consistent, and timely.

Final Consideration

Although decision-making is guided by established criteria, each weather event is unique and requires professional judgment based on current, local conditions.