During snowy winter months, it’s easy for teachers and students alike to get excited over the possibility of a school being called off because of the weather. But what’s difficult about this is that usually there aren’t any announcements sent out until the morning. So, to help prepare for what decision will be made, here are the basics of the process taken to decide.

Cold days

Cold days are decided based on temperature and wind chill rather than slippery roads and snow buildup. Recommended by the Genesee County Health Department, a temperature of -19 windchill and “real feel” is what constitutes calling a cold day. 

“The -19 degree mark is based on a recommendation from the Genesee County Health Department,” Superintendent Doug Busch said.

Snow days

Snow days are more difficult to decide on because of the possibility of snow not arriving as forecasted. On days with inclement weather, Busch wakes up at 3:45 a.m. and begins the process of discussing a snow day until about 5 a.m. with the other superintendents in the area. 

Roads are checked by several people between 4:15 and 4:45 a.m. to check for ice and other driving hazards. The parking lots of the school have to be plowed and salted before students, staff and parents drive through as well. 

There is also communication with the road commissions from Genesee, Oakland and Livingston counties before the final decision is made. 

“If a decision is made to close,” Busch said, “we like to publish the alert as early as 5:15 a.m., but not later than 5:30 a.m. so families can make plans.”

After school activities

When a snow day is called, whether or not evening activities are called off usually depends on how safe the school lots and roads are. Decisions on after-school activities are typically posted later in the day.