Early Release Days

Scheduled Early Release Days 

Scheduled early release days occur throughout the school year (see school calendar for dates). On these days: 

• School will end at 11:55

• Busses will drop off approximately 2 ½ hours earlier than usual.

• Lunch will be available as a Grab and Go option for all students; lunch will not be served during the school day.

Weather or Emergency Related Changes

Weather or Emergency Related Changes

Schools will be open during bad weather unless it is considered too dangerous for pupils to commute to school. The Portsmouth School Department utilizes ParentSquare as a notification system, which contacts parents and guardians via phone, email, text and/or app notification in the event of emergencies and weather-related schedule changes. In order to receive these alerts, it is important for families to complete the required Annual Update and immediately inform the school office of any changes to guardian contact information. 

If weather conditions are bad at 6:30 a.m. but expected to improve by mid-morning, a delayed school opening will be in effect. In the event of a delayed opening, the start of school will be at 10:00. Bus pick-up will be approximately 2 hours later than normal. 

If school is in session and it begins to storm, the school department may issue a non-scheduled early release mandate. In the event that school will be dismissed early, the ParentSquare alert system will notify you. Information will also be broadcast on local television and radio stations. When possible, the decision will be made by mid-morning to dismiss according to the early release day schedule. 

In the case of an emergency closing, all children will be sent home except those enrolled in aftercare programs at the school (provided these services have not also closed). It is important to check with these programs to be sure they are still open in the event that school closes early.