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Inclement Weather

Inclement Weather

An aerial view of a school and playground covered in snow.

Inclement Weather Protocol
At Bolivar R-1 Schools, student safety is our top priority. We also want to maximize instructional time, and snow days can disrupt classroom learning. The decision to cancel school due to inclement weather is never taken lightly. Missouri's unpredictable weather often makes these decisions challenging, requiring careful consideration, and relying on weather forecasts.
 

Who makes the decision?
The Superintendent and our Transportation Service evaluate road conditions, including side streets and back roads, to determine the safety of transportation during inclement weather. This generally occurs before 5:30 AM, but may take place the night before if necessary.
 

How is the decision made?
The Superintendent makes the final decision regarding school cancelations after careful consideration based on road conditions and the weather forecast. If possible, a decision will be made the night before school, otherwise, we will try to make the decision by 5:30 AM the following morning.
 

How is the decision communicated?
Once a decision has been made, it will be communicated to families and staff members immediately, and we will do our best to notify you by 5:30 AM. Notifications are sent via text, email, the ParentSquare app, social media, and local news media outlets.

How do I make sure I receive notifications?
Please make sure you are signed up and on the ParentSquare app. We use ParentSquare for all district communication. If you are already receiving district communications, you will also receive weather cancellation alerts. If you are not receiving communication, contact Braden Berg, Communications Director, at communications@bolivarschools.org. Make sure to follow Bolivar Schools on Facebook, Instagram, and X. You can download the ParentSquare app from the app store.
 

Are all extracurricular activities canceled when school is canceled?
When school is not in session, before and after-school childcare programs are canceled. However, some athletic events or student activities may continue depending on changing weather conditions, travel distance, departure times, and location.
 

Is school canceled for extremely cold temperatures?
There is no specific temperature at which school is automatically canceled. Administrators consider several factors, including temperature, before making a decision. Student safety is always the priority.
 

Inclement weather precautions:

  • Parents should ensure their children, especially those walking to school or riding the bus, are dressed appropriately with gloves, coats, hats, and scarves.

  • Bus drivers will allow extra time for students to board buses at designated stops, so they can stay indoors until the bus arrives during extremely cold weather.