The Criteria Most School Districts Use For School Closings
School closings are a highly debated topic, with parents, teachers, and administrators often having different opinions on the matter. However, one thing that is for sure is that school districts use a variety of criteria to make the decision of whether or not to close schools due to inclement weather or other emergencies.
The most common reason for school closings is inclement weather. In such cases, school districts usually consider the following weather conditions:
Snow and ice can make roads hazardous for buses and cars, and can also pose a safety risk for students walking or waiting for buses outside. School districts will typically close schools if there is more than a certain amount of snow accumulation, or if there is a risk of black ice.
High winds and heavy rain can also create hazardous conditions for students and staff. School districts may close schools if winds are exceeding a certain speed, or if there is a risk of flooding.
In some cases, school districts may also close schools due to other weather conditions, such as extreme heat, severe thunderstorms, or lightning.
In addition to inclement weather, school districts may also close schools due to other emergencies, such as:
Power outages can make it difficult or impossible for schools to operate safely. School districts will typically close schools if there is a power outage that is expected to last for an extended period of time.
Water main breaks can cause flooding, which can make schools unsafe for students and staff. School districts will typically close schools if there is a water main break that affects the school building or the surrounding area.
Gas leaks can pose a serious safety risk for students and staff. School districts will typically close schools if there is a gas leak in the school building or the surrounding area.
In some cases, school districts may also close schools due to other emergencies, such as a bomb threat, a chemical spill, or an active shooter situation.
The decision of whether or not to close schools is usually made by the school district's superintendent, in consultation with the school board and other stakeholders. The superintendent will typically consider all of the relevant factors, including the weather forecast, the safety of students and staff, and the impact of school closures on the community. In some cases, the superintendent may also consult with local emergency management officials.
School districts typically make the decision to close schools as early as possible, so that parents and staff have time to make arrangements for childcare and other needs.
The decision of whether or not to close schools is a complex one, and there is no one-size-fits-all solution. However, by using a variety of criteria, school districts can make informed decisions that are in the best interests of students and staff.
Here are some tips for parents on how to stay informed about school closings:
- Sign up for your school district's email or text alerts.
- Check your school district's website or social media pages for updates.
- Listen to local news and weather reports.
- Have a plan for childcare and other needs in case of a school closing.
By following these tips, parents can stay informed about school closings and make the necessary arrangements to keep their children safe.