Weather Closure Procedures
Winter Weather
Emergency Closure Procedures
In the Nampa School District, the safety of our students and staff is our top priority. When considering whether to open or close school due to inclement weather or other factors, we carefully evaluate a variety of variables. However, we want to reassure parents that we do not make the decision to close school lightly. Our process to determine whether to open or cancel school begins early in the morning, and we always prioritize the safety and well-being of our school community.
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, such as 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 ParentSquare to NSD Staff and Parents first. Next, NSD Social Media (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter,) district website, and local media are notified.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Who makes the decision to close schools?
The decision to close schools due to inclement weather or other factors is made by district officials. They work closely with representatives from Brown Bus Co., local law enforcement, and other school districts to assess road conditions and ensure the safety of our students and staff.
Does the Nampa School District lose funding on “snow days?”
No. Idaho law allows for a limited number of emergency closures without financial penalty. Therefore, the Nampa School District does not lose funding on "snow days" or other emergency closures.
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, the 5:30 a.m. deadline allows district officials to notify parents, staff, and the community in a timely manner. If school is going to open, the 5:30 a.m. time allows buses to meet their schedules and ensures that students arrive to school on time. The safety of our students and staff is our top priority, and making this decision early in the morning allows us to take appropriate action to keep them safe.
