There is nothing more important than the safety of our students and staff, so the district has a plan that is executed when we consider the weather conditions and our instructional model or the cancellation of classes for the day. We understand the decision affects families in different ways and would like to provide our families with the process used for consideration when the storm is upon us.
HOW IS THE DECISION MADE?
The decision to go virtual or cancel classes for the day is based on careful consideration of many factors that are relevant to the current conditions and projected forecast such as:
Weather service information the district consults with area districts on the current conditions and the forecasts specific to the Grafton area school district.
Transportation is used as a consultant to consider road access in neighborhoods and rural routes. We consider the availability of drivers due to their ability to get to work.
How much snow/ice has accumulated? Are we able to provide bus service?
Temperature and Wind Chill are also considered.
Discussion is held with neighboring school districts and the condition and plans for the day.
There may be days when bussing is not provided, you as a parent can chose to transport your student to school. Classroom instruction will be streamed in classrooms where that is applicable.
WHO MAKES THE DECISION?
As an administrative team we make the final decision to close school based on the weather conditions. The decision is influenced by the factors listed, with the final decision being made by the district Superintendent. Changes in law have allowed school districts to consider engagement hours vs. the 175 days as a requirement in the past. Our calendar exceeds those hours providing us with some flexibility in our scheduling.
WHEN IS THE DECISION MADE?
If the district plans to close school, the decision will be made by as close to 7 a.m. as possible.
HOW ARE PARENTS NOTIFIED
Communication is a very important part of our plan, when it is determined that classes are delayed, or a late start is announced the following procedures will be implemented.
Announcements will be shared via Power School instant messaging, please contact your building administrator to make sure your access to these sources is updated.
Delayed starts for all schools:
1 hour late start 9:30 a.m. please do not drop your child off prior to 9:00 a.m.
2 hours late start 10:30 a.m. please do not drop your child off prior to 10:00 a.m.
PARENT DECISION
The procedures we use are meant to make an informed decision, we understand you as a parent may not always agree with the decision made to open or close the school. You can make that choice for your student to stay home for the day, please notify the office of attendance and record your excusal with the building level secretary.
ACTIVITES AND EXTENDED SCHOOL PROGRAMS
If the start of school is delayed, dismissed or canceled due to weather conditions, there will be no morning or afterschool ESP, practices, field trips or scheduled extra-curricular activities.