New Hanover County Schools
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There have been many questions swirling around regarding the recent school closings due to the weather. It may seem to some that the decisions to close or delay school are made too quickly or don't reflect the weather forecast. However, each school system has a process in place for making these decisions. Here are the steps that New Hanover County Schools uses in determining whether schools run on a normal schedule, on a delay or release early.
- The school system does not like to make decisions based on weather forecasts alone. They typically gather information from several sources including the National Weather Service, New Hanover County Sheriff's office, Wilmington Police Department and NC Highway Patrol. The school system consults with these agencies to determine road information from different parts of the county.
- School bus transportation staff members drive into neighborhoods and around schools to obtain firsthand information on current conditions.
- School officials then consult with other school systems in the region to share information.
- When all information is gathered, the Superintendent is called and briefed. He then makes the final decision.
The most important thing for parents to remember is that student safety is the primary concern of school officials. Whether the issue is snow, ice, cold temperatures or severe storms the schools reserve the right to adjust the school schedule to protect students.
Reference: http://www.nhcs.net/closings_delays/InclementWeatherProcess.pdf
