Making the Snow Call
The Carroll County Public School System understands that the decision to open or close schools in inclement weather has a big effect on families. We also understand that our students are better served, both academically and socially, by being in school. However, our top priority, as always, is the safety of our students.
Who makes the decision?
The Superintendent of Schools is responsible for the final decision, based on recommendations from the Director of Transportation Services.
How is the decision made?
When the school system is advised by the weather service that storm conditions exist, three or four Transportation officials are sent out at 3:00 a.m. to survey the roads. Each section of the county is driven to determine if the roads are, or will be, safe for children to travel on school Buses. Transportation staff is in constant contact with weather stations, county and state government staff, police, Transportation officials in other counties, and each other during the road and weather assessment.
While on the road, the following factors are used to develop the recommendation for closing school:
- Existing road conditions across the entire county. Remember, even if your street or road looks clear, travel elsewhere in the county may be dangerous.
- Amount of snow and ice that has accumulated and whether it will continue.
- Temperature and wind chill.
- Weather predictions - The school system prefers not making a decision based on weather predictions, which are not always accurate. However, weather predictions are considered in combination with existing conditions.
- School parking lots (both student and staff).
- Other traffic (other traffic can slide into buses or make waiting at bus stops dangerous).
- Other factors specific to the current weather pattern or conditions.
How is the public notified?
The school system has a list that provides parents and students with the radio and TV stations that will have up-to-date information on school closings. You can also check the CCPS website at www.carrollk12.org or Carroll Educational Television - Channel 21.
When is the decision made?
The decision will be made no later than 6:00 a.m. in order to notify radio and
TV stations, send out an e-mail on eSchoolnewsletter, post the decision on the CCPS website and Channel 21, and notify schools-out.com.
Will we close school when weather conditions worsen?
Keep in mind that even if weather conditions change, a decision cannot be reversed during the morning run without affecting students and their parents and/or families.
Once the decision is made to open schools, many parents rely on this decision and leave for work. If it were decided to send students back home, many may return to unsupervised conditions. When weather conditions change during the school day, it may be necessary to have an early dismissal. The school system will strive to give adequate notice to parents first.
Please discourage teenagers from driving to and from school in adverse weather conditions.
The Carroll County Public School System transports over 28,000 students to and from school every school day using more than 350 buses. There is no perfect decision when deciding to close school, but the Superintendent will always make his decision with the safety of each student in mind.
It is hoped that this explanation helps everyone the process used to make the best possible decision concerning weather-related school closings.
