Weather Related Delays and Cancellations

Post date: Dec 5, 2016 3:20:24 PM

When we suspect weather might be an issue, an intricate process begins "behind the scenes." The previous evening, everyone is put on alert and asked to have their phones with them and to prepare for early communications. At around 4am, SAU and District personnel begin texting and chatting about the road conditions and what will be best for students. We also reach out to road agents and colleagues (other local school decision makers). We closely monitor WMUR, AccuWeather, and other radars; the forecast heavily influences the ultimate decision. In the MVSD, the first buses are typically on the road by about 6am and employees are pre-tripping buses up to an hour before that (depending on the weather). With information and forecasts in hand, the goal is to come to a conclusion about school cancellation by approximately 5:30am. It is a very collaborative and communicative process, but in the end it is the superintendent's decision.

Sometimes forecasts are not correct (a benefit of living in New England) and we have to deal with wintry road conditions. Our bus drivers are all very well trained and take every precaution in ensuring student safety. We will continue to strive to make the best decisions we can. Please let the dropping temperatures and forecasted snow serve as a reminder to ensure that your family cars are ready for these upcoming months. The following link is from a private site (http://www.dmv.org/how-to-guides/winterize-car.php). This link provides insight and resources for readying your cars for a New Hampshire winter. As always we value your continuing support and partnership.