Important Update on Weather-Related School Closures
Dear Parents and Guardians,
This winter has brought its share of challenges, with significant snowfalls and unpredictable weather impacting our community. The safety of our students and staff is always our top priority, which has led to necessary school closings and delays. We understand the impact these decisions have on families, and we truly appreciate your patience and flexibility.
Delays play a crucial role in ensuring everyone’s safety. By starting school later, we provide additional daylight for transportation, which improves visibility for bus drivers and families. This extra time also allows state, city, and township road crews to clear snow and apply salt to roads, school driveways, and parking lots, ensuring safer travel conditions for all.
As a district, we have set aside five non-instructional calamity days per year. Once this five-day threshold is reached, the district will transition to a Remote Learning model to ensure continuity of education.
For High School and Middle School Students
Students at these levels are equipped with Chromebooks, which they bring home daily. In the event of a closure, meaningful lessons created by teachers will be available on Google Classroom. Students are expected to complete these lessons to maintain attendance for the day.
For Elementary Students
Understanding that device access is more limited at the elementary level, we have developed two approaches: Specific building expectations and procedures will be
- Preemptive Remote Learning Materials: If a closure is anticipated, assignments and materials may be sent home in advance.
- Post-Cancellation Remote Learning: For unexpected closures, materials will be sent home upon students’ return, with up to 10 days provided for completion.
General Guidelines
- Communication: School closure updates and instructions will be shared through Instant Connect (email, text), the district website, and social media.
- Teacher Support: Teachers will be working in their respective buildings from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. for future closures this year. During this time, they will monitor their email and Google Classrooms to provide support and answer any questions students may have about their assignments.
- Expectations: Building principals may address specific building expectations and procedures, including communication and assignment timelines.
We deeply appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we adapt to these changes. Our dedicated teachers and staff are committed to making this process as smooth as possible for your family.
If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to your child’s school office.
Thank you again for your partnership and support.
Sincerely,
William Seder Jr.
Superintendent
Mount Vernon City Schools