Winter Weather: Message from the Superintendent
I am often asked about calamity days and the decision making process. We take the responsibility for the safety of our students very seriously. In the Huron City School District we have personnel on the roads as early as 4:00 a.m. assessing the conditions. We are in communication with city, county and neighboring school districts as part of the decision making process. Advances in radar and weather forecasts provide us with additional tools when making decisions about the status of school.
In 2014 Huron Schools began incorporating a 2-hour delay when the forecast predicts a substantial improvement in weather conditions. We realize how quickly weather on the North Coast can change; therefore, a delay plan is a valuable option in the decision making process.
Another common question - “What temperature can force a district to close for cold weather?” While there is no law or district policy regarding extreme cold, typically temperatures and/or wind chills approaching -20 degrees will lead to a delay or cancellation of school. Extreme cold becomes a factor for students who walk to and from school or wait at bus stops.
We understand that changes in school schedules create a tremendous burden on families. The decision to delay or close school will be made only when it is a necessity. We are committed to making the best possible decision with the information we have in the early morning hours. My goal is to reach a decision about delaying or closing by 5:30 a.m.
Posted: Thursday, January 10, 2019