Be Prepared for

Snow Cancellations

and Late Starts

Winter weather is on the way, and now is the time to prepare for snow days. The Portland Public Schools close when it is unsafe for children to get to school due to the conditions of roads and sidewalks. Weather permitting, the district may opt to open schools two hours later than usual, rather than close for the entire day.

School closing decisions generally are made by 5:30 a.m. They are announced on the school district website (www.portlandschools.org) and on local radio and television stations, including TV3. If schools are closed for the day, extracurricular activities usually are cancelled, too.

If the weather is improving but crews need more time to clear roads and sidewalks, the district may announce a two-hour delay in the start of school. Buses will run two hours later than normal. For example, a child who usually gets picked up at 8 a.m. should be waiting at the bus stop at 10 a.m. on a late start day. No breakfast will be served, but lunch will be available at the usual time.

If a late start is planned but weather conditions deteriorate, schools eventually may be closed for the whole day. Parents should continue to monitor news reports until 9 a.m. to be sure that school will be held.

Every family needs a back-up plan for snow days and late start days. Please arrange for a neighbor, family member, friend or child-care provider to care for your child. Be sure that your child’s school has a current phone number to reach you in case of emergency.

For more information about snow cancellations and late start days, visit www.portlandschools.org.