Akron Central Schools

When colder weather arrives there is the possibility for snow days. The following communication provides some information on how we determine to stay open or close schools for weather-related situations and how we will communicate that information with you.

Our District staff understands that a decision to close schools has a big effect on families.  We also believe that our students are better served academically and socially by being in school.  But, as always, our top priority is their safety.

How do we make our decision?
We gather as much relevant information as possible and base our decision on that analysis.  This includes: 

• Information on road conditions from Town and Highway Supervisors and our Transportation Department

• An assessment of the amount of snow and ice accumulated and/or expected

• Long and short-range weather predictions including temperature and wind chill data

• Verification of building status including utility services, staff ability to clear our own roads, driveways, and sidewalks 

• Information about what other school districts are doing and how that may impact BOCES services provided to Akron students
• Impact of area travel bans on our staffing or operations, and transporting students to other schools 

Who makes the decision and when?
As Superintendent of Schools, I am responsible for the final determination. My decision is based on the above factors and recommendations from our Directors of Facilities and Transportation.  We make every attempt to communicate to you our decision to close schools as soon as possible but typically no later than 6:15 a.m.

How are parents and staff notified? 
Our notification will go out via our automated telephone messaging system to all phone numbers registered with us.  If we do not have your correct phone number, you will not be notified.  Please access our phone messaging form here to update your contact information if necessary.  Closure information is provided to the following television stations:  WKBW, WGRZ, WIVB, and Spectrum, as well as to WBEN radio.

Will we close schools if conditions worsen throughout the day? 
Please keep in mind that even if weather conditions worsen while we are in school, we would rarely reverse our decision and send students back home.  Once we decide to open schools, many parents leave for work.  If we sent students home, many would return to unsupervised bus stops and empty homes.  After we arrive at school, we may have an early dismissal, but we will make every effort to provide adequate notice to all parents.  That process alone requires at least one and a half hours of lead time to accomplish.

Although our staff is thoughtful and deliberate in this process, we know that no perfect decision exists.  If you do not feel as though it is safe for your child to attend school, use your best judgment on whether he or she should attend that day.  Also, please discourage teenagers from driving in bad conditions.

We hope that this explanation helps everyone understand the process that our District staff uses to make the best possible decision for all in our District.

Sincerely,

Andrea S. Kersten
Superintendent of Schools