Communication Avenues

As everyone is aware, the weather has already been sever. We just had our first snow day due to the fact that buses could not run because the county roads hadn't been cleared. Even though the school side-walks were cleaned and immediate access was available into our buildings, remote access denied school from taking place.

Because of the various communication venues this day and age, I want to identify all communication lines for parents and constituents to access during inclement weather. Nothing is more frustrating for a parent than not being informed and not being informed in a timely fashion; therefore, I have provided times and media that will be used in making these type of decisions.

LINES OF COMMUNICATIONS: The district will do everything possible to make a decision about school closure and delay by 6:00 AM. You may get information from the following:

1. I will post all delays and closures on this blog by 6:10 AM.

2. Notifications will also be shared with radio stations: 92.3 FM and 750 AM (Anderson Broadcasting) as soon as a decision is made.

3. Television station KECI 13 will also be notified of all closures and delays.

4. If in doubt, call the school 406-745-3811.

TYPES OF CLOSURES AND DELAYS: We will do everything possible to have school to avoid make up days in June; however, it is not our intention to put anyone in danger. On the days when weather or other circumstances exist that call for closure or delays, one of the following alternatives may be implemented:

1. School Closure: This means just that. School will be closed for the day. NO CURRICULAR OR EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES WILL BE TAKING PLACE FOR THAT DAY. GAMES AND ACTIVITIES WILL BE CANCELED OR RESCHEDULED. School is canceled until the next scheduled day.

2. School Delay/Late Start: School will start at 10:00 AM on these days. This gives transportation the opportunity to run safely when roads have been cleared. This also provides staff the opportunity to address campus situations like snow removal, utility repairs and etc… in order to adequately prepare our facilities for school.

3. Buses Will Not Run: School will be in session at its regular time on these days; however, bus routes will not run. Students on routes will not be counted absent, they will be granted administrative leave and may stay home. This action will usually take place when county roads are not safe for travel or accessible for school buses.

At this time, the district is investigating other options for student, parent, staff and faculty communications, like a phone notification system (calls multiple numbers at once and leaves a message). News travels fast on cell phones and text. No sooner than I canceled school last Monday, my daughter came out of her room telling me school was closed. She just received a text message from a classmate. Cell phones are a powerful media and almost everyone has one. If we can find a way to access and harness them in mass, then this post might not be necessary.

In the mean time, we will use the above notification system to inform you of all closures and delays. If you have any questions don't hesitate to call: 407-745-3811.

Be safe and stay warm.