School closure during a weather event In
emergency situations, such as snow and icy weather conditions, the top
priority is the safety of students and staff. The district also
recognizes that snow days disrupt family schedules and the school year
may have to be extended. The decision to close schools is not an easy
one. The process is complex and involves many people.
The
district geography is taken into account when the decision is made.
One part of our area may be clear while other areas are struggling with
several inches of snow. It is not possible to close some schools in
the district while leaving other schools open.
How the decision to close schools is made To
help make the best possible decision, much information is gathered.
Weather forecasts are monitored throughout the process. District staff
drives the roads beginning at 3:00am checking schools and routes that
are frequently impacted and report road conditions to the superintendent
by 5:00am. We consult with neighboring districts regarding road
conditions into Lake Stevens. After careful scrutiny and analysis, one
of the following four options is decided:
Schools start on time
Schools start on time with limited bus service
Schools are on two-hour late start
Schools are closed
When the decision is made, the information is listed on the district webpage, SchoolReports.org, and announced on television and radio stations.
Emergency school closure during operating hours In
the event of an earthquake, utility failure, weather event, etc. during
school hours, the district will determine if it is necessary to close a
school or the district.
Parents
will be notified of the closure through the messaging system the school
uses. Staff will call parents; the district will post information on
its website, as well as through radio and television. The district
office and Transportation Department will implement the emergency
response plan when needed.
