How to find out if schools are closed due to inclement winter weather

If winter weather conditions jeopardize the overall safety of students and impair the operations of the school district, a decision to cancel school will be made by 6 a.m. on the morning of the school day.

How to find out if school is closed due to weather:

·         A ParentLink phone message and email will be sent to all students’ and employees’ homes.

·         Information will be posted on the front page of the district’s website, www.usd259.com.

·         Local news media will be notified. Tune to a local radio or television stations for notification.

·         A voice message will be posted on the Wichita Public Schools’ Emergency Weather Information Hotline at 973-4259.

·         Parents and employees can subscribe to have Emergency Weather Notifications emailed to them at home or at work.

Decisions to close schools are based on a number of variables, including actual and projected snowfall, icing and wind-chill factors, ability of the bus fleet to transport students, and assessment of street and road conditions, including snow/ice treatment and removal. Power and heat to buildings is also a factor that is considered.

If a winter weather condition develops while school is in session, early dismissal may be required. However, such a decision would only occur under the most extreme conditions. If a decision is made during the school day, the different types of communication listed above would also be used to notify parents and employees.   

During times of severe weather, conditions may cause buses to run late. If such a situation occurs, information will be relayed to local news media.

Rescheduled athletic events will be posted on Athletics' web page. 
 

More information for district staff about weather information and policies is available on the district’s website.  




December 7, 2009