Snow day.
The two words that typically evoke joy in the souls of students everywhere (and dread in the hearts of their parents) may just be on the horizon for New Westminster.
With potential snow in the forecast for the weekend and into next week, here’s a refresher for local families about what will happen to New Westminster schools in the event of winter weather.
The school district’s snow day policy, as outlined in a letter to parents in the fall, notes that in the “rare instances” where a school closure is warranted, the New Westminster school district will try to announce the decision by 6:30 a.m. at the latest.
Parents have a few ways of finding out the news:
- Phone calls and emails will be made to parents and caregivers who are part of the school messenger system.
- A notice will be posted on the school district website.
- Notifications will go out over the school district’s social media channels, Facebook and Twitter.
- A list of school closures is also usually read on radio stations CKNW (AM 980) and CBC (AM 690).
“Student safety is our priority, and we ask that if a parent/caregiver feels that their child cannot travel safely to or from school, then they should make alternate arrangements for the day,” said the school district letter to parents. “Student absences due to unsafe travel during inclement weather conditions will of course be excused.”
Parents are also reminded that, since typical backup plans may be impacted by COVID-19 restrictions, families should try to make their alternate plans in advance in the event of school closure or the inability to travel safely to school.
Follow Julie MacLellan on Twitter @juliemaclellan.
Email Julie, [email protected].
