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EMERGENCY CLOSINGS
 
The Superintendent of Schools may close the schools or dismiss students/staff early when hazardous weather or other emergencies threaten the health or safety of students and personnel. The Superintendent of Schools may delegate this authority to another staff member in the event of his/her absence.
 
 
While it may be prudent, under certain circumstances, to excuse all students from attending school, to delay the opening hour, or to dismiss students early, the Superintendent of Schools is has the responsibility to ensure that administrative, supervisory, and operational activity is continued to the extent possible. School closing and delayed starting times will be announced over local media. If no report is heard, it can be assumed the schools are in session, and are opening on time. Only the Superintendent of Schools or his/her designee are authorized to contact the media.
 
 
In making the decision to close schools, the Superintendent of Schools may consider many factors, including the following, which relate to the safety and health of children:
 
 
1.  weather conditions, both existing and predicted;
2.  driving, traffic, and parking conditions affecting public and private transportation facilities;
3.  actual occurrence or imminent possibility of any emergency condition that would make the operation of schools difficult or dangerous; and
4.  inability of teaching personnel to report for duty, which might result in inadequate supervision of students.
 
 
Among the other factors the Superintendent of Schools may consider are advice from traffic and weather authorities, building principals, and school officials.
 
 
Students, parents, and staff will be informed early in each school year of the procedures that will be used to notify them in case of emergency closing.
 
 
Ref:  Education Law §3604(7)
 
ADOPTED: May 7, 1997