What to know when there's cold and snow
The district makes every possible effort to keep schools open, in most weather conditions, if bus travel is safe. Unless we announce otherwise, assume that school will be in session. For snowy or cold conditions, be sure to dress your kids warmly for the possibility of longer walk times or waits at the bus stop, and allow for the occasional delay with bus pick-up times.
It is always the parent's decision – such as when there is a concern about weather conditions -- about whether or not to have their child go to school.
We also want to remind you of some things you'll want to know about school closings, such as when to look for announcements, how we'll notify you, how decisions are made about closing school (or keeping it open), and how to update your contact information.
Learn more about our school closings, delayed starts, and early dismissal procedures
Notification sources if school is canceled
- An alert notification about school closing will be sent to you by telephone and e-mail. A message will be sent to your primary phone, cell phone, or work phone and e-mail address -- based upon information/preferences provided by each family. To update your records or see your contact preferences, login into Campus Portal on the district website. You can also contact your child's school for assistance.
- An easy-to-find Alert Message will be posted on the top of each page on district and school websites: SpringLakeParkSchools.org
- Recorded messages will be on district and school office phones
- Twin Cities radio and television stations will be contacted
Schools are Open
If the school district determines that its buses can run dependably and bus travel is deemed safe, schools will be open.
Cold/Snowy Weather: Schools are Open
On cold or snowy days when weather conditions are not ideal but bus routes are safe, the district will keep schools open. We realize that weather or traffic conditions could cause some buses to run late or present challenges for some walkers such as with not all sidewalks shoveled.
On days such as this, it is up to each parent whether or not to send their child to school if they believe weather conditions make it unsafe to arrive at school by bus, car, or walking. A student who remains at home or arrives late would be responsible for class assignments, and we ask that parents report what would be an excused absence to the school.
Schools are Closed
The school district would close school if it is unsafe for students and staff to arrive at school or if buses would have difficulty traveling their routes. The amount of snow, temperature, wind chill, passable roads, and buses that do not start are among the factors that are considered. A power outage or broken water pipe could result in a school closing. We would alert our families on the website, by phone, and email, and local media.
When to look for announcements
If winter storms or other emergency situation cause us to close school for the day or delay the start of school, a decision will be made as early as possible.
More information, including procedures for school closings, delayed starts, and early dismissals can be found on our School Closings and Alerts section.