Many variables impact this decision. Specific variables impacting each decision usually change with each given situation.
A “few” examples of some of these variables include:
• Forecasted changes in the weather conditions, by the hour. (One example: Sometimes the temperature and wind chill at 10 a.m. is forecasted to be the same as the temperature and wind chill at 7 a.m. This results in similar weather conditions at both times of the morning.)
• The impact that a change in the start time of school can have on working parents and their ability to arrange for child care.
• The amount of daylight in the early morning when our students are walking to school. (For example: There is actually more daylight at 7 a.m. during the month of December than there is at 7 a.m. during the month of February.)
• Real temperature is forecasted to reach zero or below.
• Road conditions in one borough or the other are reported to be unsafe.
• Bus equipment issues.
• Last minute unexpected weather conditions.
While we strive to make the best possible decision with regard to whether or not to delay or close at the district level……
• Parents are reminded that if the school district has not delayed or closed, and you feel that it is not safe for your child to set out to school, please wait until you feel the conditions are safe before having your child head out to school in the morning, or you may choose to keep your child at home.
• Because unplanned early dismissals have the potential to create situations where children may arrive at an unsupervised home or might be unable to get into their homes, unplanned early dismissals will be implemented only in the event of an extreme emergency. Parents always have the option of arranging for their child to be dismissed early from school when they feel that their personal circumstances necessitate this as an option. In this case, a parent is welcome to come to the school and sign their child out for the day by visiting the school office.
Parent cooperation and support is very helpful during these unexpected situations and it is very much appreciated by the administration. Thank you for your patience and understanding.