Weather Closure

winter weather
EMERGENCY CLOSURE

The decision to close school is not taken lightly. Although there are a number of variables that are considered when making the decision to open or cancel school, the first concern is safety. Our process to make this determination begins early in the morning.

  • 3:30 a.m. District and Brown Bus officials observe weather conditions
  • 4:00 a.m. Brown Bus representatives drive bus routes to evaluate road conditions
  • 4:30 a.m. District officials collect/monitor information as it becomes available (i.e. current weather forecasts, contacts with neighboring districts, city/county road conditions, police department, etc.)
  • 5:30-6 a.m. District administration makes the decision to open or cancel school; notifications begin via Facebook, district website, media, email to parents and staff

ANSWERS TO FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Who makes the decision to close schools? Is it the bus company?
No. District officials make the decision to close schools. District officials work closely with representatives from Brown Bus Co., local law enforcement and other school districts to assess road conditions.

Does the Nampa School District lose funding on “snow days?”
No. Idaho law allows for a limited number of emergency closures without financial penalty.

Why is the decision to open or close schools made so early?
The district must make the decision by 5:30 a.m. for several reasons. If school is going to close, 5:30 a.m. allows district officials to notify parents, staff and the community. If school is going to open, the 5:30 a.m. time allows buses to meet their schedules and prevents students arriving late for school.