Inclement weather decision-making process in the ISD

Posted December 9, 2024

If you’ve ever wondered what goes into the decision-making process for the district when it comes to inclement weather days, please read the message below from Superintendent Dr. Dale Herl. It’s not a decision that comes easily, since we know the last-minute impact it can have on parents/guardians when school is called off. We appreciate your understanding and all that you do for the students and staff of the Independence School District.

Hello,

I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving break. With winter weather already making its first appearance and colder temperatures ahead, I want to take a moment to share my annual message about how decisions regarding inclement weather and snow days are made. These decisions are rarely straightforward, and I understand they can sometimes require families to make last-minute adjustments. Please know that I approach this responsibility with great care and consideration.

Transportation Considerations

As a parent whose own children have attended or currently attend ISD schools and rely on ISD transportation, I can assure you that safety is my top priority. I would never place any student, including my own, in a situation I believe to be unsafe. To make an informed decision, I personally drive the roads in and around Independence, often starting this process before 3 a.m., to assess conditions firsthand.

Timing of the Decision

While I strive to make the decision about a snow day the night before to provide families with as much notice as possible, the unpredictability of weather often makes this difficult. There have been instances where the forecast predicted no snow, yet we woke up to several inches, and other times when snow or ice was predicted but never materialized. For this reason, some decisions may be made early in the morning instead of the previous evening.  I typically first post the closure of schools on my Twitter account @drdaleherl.  The district will then follow with notification on its social media platforms.  I will then notify the local news outlets.  Lastly, you will receive a robocall from me at approximately 5:15 am if school is closed.  The call needs to occur at this time or sooner as our bus drivers and attendants are starting their journey into work for the day.

Funding is Not a Factor

A common misconception is that decisions to hold school despite snow are influenced by funding. This is absolutely not the case. ISD does not receive additional funding for holding school on a particular day versus making up the day later. My decisions are based solely on the safety of our students and staff.

Inclement Weather Make-Up Days

If we need to cancel school due to inclement weather, make-up days are built into the school calendar. The designated make-up days for this school year are as follows:

  • March 3, 2025
  • May 5, 2025
  • March 31, 2025
  • April 28, 2025
  • May 12, 2025

Parental and Guardian Decisions

I respect the decisions of parents and guardians who feel it is best to keep their children home during inclement weather. If you are concerned about the cold or hazardous conditions, here are some options to consider:

  • Drive your child to school.
  • Wait with your child at the bus stop until the bus arrives.
  • Keep your child home for the day.

Thank you for your understanding and cooperation as we navigate the challenges of winter weather. I appreciate your partnership in ensuring the safety and well-being of all ISD students.

Sincerely,
Dr. Herl
Superintendent