❄️📢As a winter storm approaches, we are sending out a condensed version of a communication we sent out earlier this winter about our decision-making process for schedule changes. Washington County Public Schools covers a large geographic area with varying elevations, road conditions, and weather patterns. When winter weather affects our county, we carefully weigh multiple factors to make decisions that prioritize student and staff safety while maintaining in-person learning whenever conditions allow.
Why WCPS Sometimes Delays School
Temperature: Even when forecasts predict extreme cold, a 2-hour or 3-hour delay gives temperatures a chance to rise slightly during the daylight hours. We begin to consider this when temperatures are single digits or wind chills are below zero. As temperatures drop, we recognize that for some students, school is the warmest place they may have access to.
Road Conditions: Snow and ice may impact roads differently across the county, and a delay gives the WCPS transportation department extra time to ensure all bus routes are safe for travel. Driving in the daylight also allows drivers to identify potential slick spots more easily.
Bus Preparations: Cold temperatures can make starting school buses challenging. Diesel engines may require extra time to warm up and operate properly.
Comfortable/Safe Learning Environment: A delay gives our maintenance teams additional time to ensure parking lots are clear, heating systems are fully operational, and that plumbing and other systems are safe before students and staff arrive.
Childcare: Childcare for elementary students will be provided at elementary schools (for elementary aged students only) for working families who need it.
Why WCPS Sometimes Closes School
Operating on a delayed schedule does not improve student and staff safety.
Road and Transportation Safety: Unsafe roads or bus travel across the county.
Adverse Weather Conditions: Forecasted storms, snow, ice, windchill, or temperatures too low for safe travel.
Childcare: When schools are closed due to weather, WCPS will determine whether it is safe to offer childcare at elementary schools based on road conditions. If childcare is offered, meals will be provided for elementary students at those school locations. Details about childcare and meal availability will be communicated as needed.
Importance of In-Person Learning
While remote learning is utilized when necessary, in-person instruction provides a richer educational experience, including direct access to teachers, hands-on activities, meals, and social interactions – all of which are difficult to replicate virtually. We have additional days built into the 2nd semester and make-up days built into the calendar. Once these options are exhausted, we will begin to consider virtual learning as an option.
To learn about WCPS Schedule Change Options, click here: Schedule Change Options
To read Frequently Asked Questions about schedule changes, click here: Frequently Asked Questions
To learn how to Stay Connected with WCPS, click here: Stay Connected
Families always have the final say when deciding whether their child should attend school. Absences due to unsafe travel are excused, and schools will work with families to support learning. Our goal is to keep students safe, ensure schools are ready, and maintain in-person learning when possible. Thank you for your patience and partnership as we navigate winter weather together.
