As winter storms sweep across regions each year, schools often face tough decisions about whether to open or close for the day. For families, these closures can mean scrambling to adjust schedules, rearranging childcare or juggling work responsibilities. But behind every decision to cancel classes is a careful process guided by safety, logistics and community needs.
Why Schools Close During Winter Weather
Winter storms can bring dangerous conditions that threaten student safety. The main weather-related concerns include:
- Icy or snowy roads that make bus travel hazardous.
- Low visibility from blowing snow or heavy precipitation.
- Extreme cold or wind chill that could put children at risk while waiting at bus stops.
- Building issues like frozen pipes or power outages.
Even a few inches of snow can disrupt transportation and staff availability, making it unsafe to run a normal school day.
Who Decides If Schools Close?
The decision to close schools typically involves multiple local authorities, with the superintendent (or equivalent district leader) having the final say. Here’s how the process usually works:
- Weather Monitoring Begins Early:
District officials begin watching forecasts days in advance using reliable sources such as the National Weather Service and regional weather services. - Consultation With Local Experts:
Superintendents often talk with county road crews, meteorologists and emergency management officials. They ask questions like:- Are primary and secondary roads passable?
- Can buses safely navigate hills or rural routes?
- What time will snowfall peak?
- Transportation Assessment:
Bus drivers or transportation supervisors may test routes early in the morning to check road conditions firsthand. - Facilities Evaluation:
Schools consider whether buildings are safe — for example, if there are heating problems or blocked entrances. - Staff Availability:
Even if conditions are passable, schools must ensure enough teachers and support staff can travel safely.
Once information is gathered, the superintendent evaluates the data and makes a decision.
When Do Decisions Happen?
Most districts try to decide by early morning or the night before if possible. This gives families time to plan and reduces confusion. Many schools announce closures between 5 a.m. and 6 a.m. depending on when weather information becomes clear.
How Are Closures Communicated?
Schools use multiple channels to let families know about closures:
- Text messages and automated calls
- Emails
- School district websites or apps
- Local news outlets and social media
Parents should ensure their contact information is up to date with the school so they receive alerts quickly.
Different Types of Weather Announcements
It’s not always a full “school closure.” Districts may use other options like:
- Delayed Start: School begins later to allow time for roads to be cleared.
- Early Dismissal: If weather worsens during the day, students go home before the regular time.
- Virtual Learning: Some schools shift to online classes to avoid lost learning days while keeping students safe.
Understanding these options helps parents plan more effectively.
What Parents Should Know and Do
1. Prepare a Plan Ahead of Time
Have a backup plan for childcare in case schools close unexpectedly. Know what your child should do if you’re not home when an early dismissal happens.
2. Stay Informed
Follow your school district on social media or sign up for its notification system. Many districts also provide closure calendars.
3. Dress for the Weather
If students must wait for buses, make sure they have proper winter gear — coats, hats, boots and gloves — especially in areas with extreme cold.
4. Understand Local Conditions
Sometimes roads near your home may be worse than those in other parts of the district. Even when schools are open, you can decide the safest option for your child.
5. Keep Technology Ready
With more schools offering online assignments, make sure your child’s laptop or tablet and internet access are prepared in case of remote learning.
The Bigger Picture: Safety First
School closures are ultimately about student and staff safety. Officials balance many factors — not just snow totals — when making decisions. While cancellations can disrupt routines, they reflect careful planning and concern for wellbeing.
For parents, knowing how decisions are made and how to prepare proactively can make winter weather a little easier to navigate.
