SUSPENSION OF CLASSES BECAUSE OF WEATHER OR OTHER CAUSES

Background

The safety of students and staff during periods of inclement weather or when other hazards arise is of paramount importance to the District.

The District will:

• Endeavour to keep all schools in the District open and in session on all prescribed school days provided that safety can be ensured for students and staff.
• Assess each occurrence of inclement weather or of a hazardous situation as it occurs, and initiate the appropriate actions to provide the safest conditions for students and staff.

As per the School Act, the School Medical Officer may require the District to close a school when that Officer considers the health and safety of students to be at risk.

Procedures

1. The Superintendent shall make the final decision regarding suspension of classes.
2. The Superintendent shall make all announcements including cancellation of bus transportation.
3. The Executive Administrative Assistant will ensure any suspension of classes is posted on the district website of the District’s plan for the following day.  Social media accounts will be updated as quickly as possible.
   1. Whenever possible these announcements will be made early in the day.
4. Teaching and support staff employees, administrative officers and excluded staff are expected to make every reasonable effort to attend their place of work. If unable to attend, employees are to contact their immediate supervisor or District Office.
5. Principals shall encourage parents to exercise their prerogative to keep their children at home should the weather present unusual hazards.This message shall be presented through school social media and websites.
6. Principals will advise parents of the suspension of classes procedure and provide directions regarding the release of theirchildren.
7. Principals and school staffs will establish a protocol for the safe release and supervision children during the school day.
8. At the discretion of the Superintendent, staff members may be released prior to dismissal time.