8220 - SCHOOL DAY/SCHOOL CLOSURE

The Board authorizes the school day to be arranged and scheduled by the administration. It is to offer the maximum education for the time spent within the limitations of school facilities and the laws and regulations of the State.

The District Administrator may close the schools, delay the opening of school, or dismiss school early when such alteration in the regular session is required for the protection of the health and safety of students and staff members. The Administrator shall prepare rules for the proper and timely notification of concerned persons and parents in the event of an emergency closing of the schools.

The District Administrator shall have the authority to determine which school-related activities may be conducted if the school is closed for a period of time. S/He shall prepare appropriate guidelines for communication to students, parents, and others regarding the scheduling and conduct of such activities.

The District Administrator shall establish administrative guidelines stating the normal hours of the school day for students and staff members.

EMERGENCY SCHOOL CLOSINGS AND DELAYED STARTING TIMES

The District Administrator or his/her designee is empowered to close the District schools, dismiss students and/or personnel early or delay the start of the school day in the event of hazardous weather or other emergencies which threaten the health or safety of students and personnel or are perceived to substantially disrupt the instructional process. If emergency conditions affect only a single school building, only that school shall be closed, dismissed early, or have a delayed starting time.

In making the decision to close schools, dismiss students and/or personnel early or delay the start of the school day, the District Administrator or his/her designee shall consider many factors, including the following principle ones relating to the fundamental concerns for the safety and health of students:

1. Weather conditions, both existing and predicted.
2. Driving conditions affecting public and private transportation.
3. Actual occurrence or imminent possibility of any emergency condition that would make the operation of schools difficult or dangerous.

The District Administrator or designee shall weigh all pertinent factors and may consult with all appropriate resources in making the decision to close schools, dismiss students and/or personnel early, or delay the start of the school day. Students, parents/guardians, and staff shall be informed of school closings, early dismissals, and delays as early as practical via the District’s electronic notification service and announcements over local radio and television stations.

Inclement weather days shall be made up in accordance with the Employee Handbook.

T.C. 3/14/24

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