Posted 12/11/12

We often receive questions regarding the process used in making determinations about school closings. This is always a difficult decision and we understand that a decision to open or close in bad weather will have a major impact on our families. While we recognize that students are best served academically by being in school, the safety of our students is always our top priority.

Factors Taken Into Consideration

With that in mind, there are many factors that are taken into consideration when making this decision. The following information is considered in all decisions relative to the closing of school:

• District staff members assess the conditions of the roads, sidewalks and parking lots, taking into account snow and ice, as well as other hazards such as downed trees or power lines.

• The Director of Transportation consults with other area Directors to gather information about road conditions in surrounding areas.

• Our staff consults with the highway supervisors in the towns that are included within our district to assess the progress of snow clearing.

• Short and long-term weather forecasts are considered.

• When appropriate, the potential for wind chill is considered.

Decision Process

Typically, the decision process regarding school closings occurs between 4 and 5:30 am, with a final decision made by 6 am.

Notification to Parents

If the decision to close is made, we communicate to parents through many avenues to ensure we reach as many families as possible. These include: our Connect-Ed phone system, the district web site, SNN (School News Notifier) messages, our Gloversville Facebook page, and through the local television and radio stations.

Emergency closing information is provided to the following local TV stations:

WRGB (Channel 6)
WTEN (Channel 10)
WNYT (Channel 13)
Fox News (Channel 23)
Capital News 9 (Channel 9)

The district also notifies the following radio stations:

WENT (1340AM)

 

Personal Responsibility

It is up to parents to keep their emergency contact information up-to-date. If you have any changes, please be sure to communicate them with your building secretary.

As always, it is up to parents or guardians to make the final decision regarding school attendance. If you feel the weather is too severe, you have the right to keep your children home. Likewise, if you are concerned about poor weather that has developed during the day, you may make arrangements to pick up your child. In any case, please communicate your decision with your school.

If you believe there may be an emergency at the school and you need more information, please first check our web site or listen to the radio or TV for details. Numerous phone calls to the school may hinder the staff's ability to deal with the situation.