Inclement Weather Policy

Written By Sophia Niko
 
 

SAFETY IS OUR PRIORITY

Our staff understands that our decision to open, close or delay school opening during inclement weather often disrupts family schedules. We also understand that our children are better served – academically, emotionally and socially – by being in school. But, as always, our top priority is the safety of our children and staff, so the decision to close or delay opening is not an easy one.

  • Please understand that we make the decision to open or close the center in bad weather based on a careful analysis of all relevant factors, including:

    · Information on road conditions from transportation staff and from local law enforcement and road crews

    · Amount of snow and/or ice accumulated

    · Whether precipitation will continue throughout the day

    · Temperature and wind chill

    · Weather predictions (including those from a weather alert service)

    · Storm timing, trajectory and projection

    · Building conditions (such as whether our building’s electricity and/or heat service is disrupted)

    · Parking lot conditions

    *Generally, Rocking Horse Montessori will be closed or delayed for inclement weather when local school districts are closed or delayed. Still, our school has its own exclusive circumstance. Please call us for the most up-to-date information in each unique situation:(905)764-3933.

  • Ultimately, Rocking Horse Montessori directors are responsible for the final decision based on the above factors.

  • We strive to make the decision to close by 6:00 a.m. or earlier so we can notify parents immediately via HiMama. Please keep in mind that unusual weather conditions may force us to make the decision after this time.

  • Even if the weather conditions worsen, we cannot reverse our decision in the morning without endangering the children and staff. If conditions worsen throughout the school day, we may need to have an early dismissal, but we will give as much notice as possible through the previously mentioned methods of communication. However, it is very important for parents to have plans in place in case the decision needs to be made later. We encourage you to consider driving conditions. Always allow yourself plenty of time in the afternoon to pick up your child when the center closes early.

Although we do our absolute best in this process, we know that often no perfect decision exists. If you do not feel that it is safe for your child to attend, use your best judgment whether or not he or she should attend. We prefer to exercise flexibility in these situations as opposed to an inflexible policy.

Sophia Niko