CalendarWith possible ice/snow conditions in the forecast for next week, we want to remind you again about planning for winter weather, and how we communicate school delays and closures to both staff and families. We sent a similar email in November last year.
When we are expecting snow or inclement weather, a Central Office team continually monitors conditions across the District. That includes having staff drive some of the streets that are typically more treacherous in snow and ice. After consulting with other agencies, we decide whether to delay school by two hours or if a closure is necessary. That decision is typically made by 5:30 a.m.
You can learn if there is a school delay or closure through:
· local TV and radio stations;
· the District website at www.seattleschools.org;
· an automated phone call you will receive; and
· the Public Schools Emergency Communications System at www.SchoolReport.org
Staff and families will receive one of the following four messages:
1. Seattle Public Schools: Schools open on time – buses operating on snow routes. No door-to-door service. No Preschool or Head Start.
2. Seattle Public Schools: Two hours late – buses operating on snow routes. No door-to-door service. No Preschool or Head Start.
3. Seattle Public Schools: Two hours late – buses operating on regular routes. No door-to-door service. No Preschool or Head Start.
4. Seattle Public Schools: Schools closed.
Please note: Notification of “School Closures” does not include the John Stanford Center for Educational Excellence Building (JSCEE). If JSCEE is closed due to inclement weather, it will be specifically noted. The decision to close the JSCEE will be made by Interim Superintendent Susan Enfield.
Sincerely,
Office of Public Affairs/Communications
Seattle Public Schools
