Cold Weather School Closure

Policy Summary

PARENTAL DISCRETION IS ADVISED when
the temperature is minus 40 degrees to minus 47 degrees Celsius with wind chill.

SCHOOL WILL BE CLOSED TO STUDENTS when
the temperature is minus 48 degrees Celsius with the wind chill factor.

Our Approach

Nelson House Education Authority intends that the school operate in accordance with the annual school calendar. However, the Board recognizes that occasions may occur when classes may have to be cancelled due to extreme weather conditions.
Nelson House Education Authority has opted to implement the following policy until a community forum with parents is held to discuss this matter in more detail.  The policy covers two temperature ranges:

1. Minus 40 to Minus 47 Below Celsius with Wind Chill

Parents must decide if it is in their child/children’s best interest to send them to school when the temperature is between minus 40 and minus 47. This is called parental discretion. During these times the following will be in place:

• Buses will continue to transport students
• School will remain open
• Staff will be on duty and education will be delivered.

Parents are encouraged to dress children

appropriately for weather conditions. If any children are not dressed properly, they will be taken home.

2. Minus 48 Celsius or Colder with Wind Chill

The Board will close school to students when the temperature is minus 48 or colder.  During these times the following will be observed:

• Classes will not be in session and parents should not send children to school.
• School will not be opened to students

Staff will be on duty to:

• Ensure that students who may show up at school are safe and arrangements are made for transportation home, and
• Participate in planning, staff meetings and or other professional development activities under the direction of the Principal

Buses will not be available to transport students.

Environment Canada Website is the Source for Checking Outdoor Temperatures

Temperature readings will be taken from Environment Canada website:
www.weatheroffice.gc.ca – Thompson

www.weathernetwork.com – Nelson House

• At 7:30 p.m. for Otetiskiwin Kiskinwamahtowekamik School
• At 12:30 p.m. for Nisichawayasihk Neyo Ohtinwak Collegiate
  

Student Awards

Students’ attendance will not be affected by these decisions since year-end awards will be issued for excellent attendance.   Students whose attendance range is between 90-100% for the school year will qualify for excellent attendance awards. This process takes into consideration absences due to unforeseen circumstances.