Emergency Weather Plan

The superintendent and administrative staff closely monitor weather conditions during periods of inclement weather. District personnel work in coordination with government and community safety officials to ensure the safety of students, staff, and school operations.

DCSD staff closely monitor weather conditions to ensure the safety of students and staff. The Transportation Department evaluates and tests bus routes, while the Maintenance Department checks school facilities and power systems. We also coordinate with local and state law enforcement agencies, as well as neighboring school districts, to stay informed about road and travel conditions.

The safety of all DCSD students is our top priority. Even if conditions appear clear in one area, hazards may exist elsewhere in the district. When determining the safety of students, the district considers multiple factors, including:

• Road conditions reported by the Transportation Department and law enforcement, including ice or snow accumulation

• Timing and amount of snowfall or ice

• Weather forecasts and predictions

• School building conditions, such as power and heating

• Ability of essential staff to travel safely from their homes

• Parking lot and sidewalk conditions

• Temperature and wind-chill factors

The superintendent of schools makes the final decision, taking into account the factors outlined above and recommendations from district staff.

The superintendent aims to make a decision by 5:30 a.m. to allow sufficient time for media notifications.

School closings are announced on the district and school websites, social media channels, and local broadcast media. Parents and guardians also receive notifications through SchoolMessenger emails and texts. Depending on timing, an automated voice message may also be sent. It is recommended to verify information using at least two sources, especially when relying on social media.

IF THERE IS NO CLOSING MESSAGE ON THE DCSD WEBSITE, SCHOOL IS OPEN.

If school must close during the day, students will be sent home according to their usual transportation arrangements unless other instructions are on file with the teacher. Staff cannot accept phone instructions during emergency closures. Parents and guardians should plan ahead for early dismissals. Notifications will be issued using the same methods described above.

If the school day is delayed, students should follow their normal routine and schedule, with the start time pushed back by two hours.

No, DCSD makes up instructional time missed due to weather-related closures using Canvas, the district’s learning management system. For more information, please visit your school’s website.