As we prepare for the winter season, please review our updated Inclement Weather Procedures for the 2025–2026 school year. These guidelines ensure that all decisions are made with the safety of our students, staff, and bus drivers as our highest priority.

STEP ONE: Daily Monitoring

• The Transportation Director and district administration monitor weather forecasts every day to anticipate potential weather-related impacts.

STEP TWO: Pre-Event Assessment

1. The Transportation Director and administration consult the night before any forecasted severe weather event.
2. The Transportation Director drives district roads early to assess safety and accessibility.
3. Consultation occurs with Tribal Police, County Road Departments, Spokane-area news, and surrounding school districts to gather current information.
4. If conditions warrant, a decision regarding delay or closure may be made the night before or before 6:00 a.m. whenever possible.
5. The Transportation Director may contact County or Tribal Officials for updates on road-clearing timelines and plowing schedules.

STEP THREE: Decision-Making & Notifications

1. Safety is the guiding factor in all weather-related decisions.
2. Schools may operate under a 2-hour delay or be closed, depending on weather and road conditions.
3. Decisions will be made before 6:00 a.m. or earlier, whenever possible.
4. Notifications will be shared through:
   • School Messenger
   • District and School Facebook pages
   • Parent email
   • Local news stations

Important Notes

• Breakfast will not be served on days with a 2-hour delay.
• “Snow Routes” may be activated when conditions require an alternate bus plan.
• Forecasting is not an exact science—there may be times when our decision is conservative, or when conditions change unexpectedly. Please know every call is made with care, caution, and safety at the forefront.

RELEASING SCHOOL EARLY: due to weather conditions is never a simple decision. While it may seem straightforward, several critical safety considerations must be evaluated before making a final determination, and if one is made, when it will occur.  This includes assessing road conditions, consulting with local and county law enforcement, and ensuring that parents and the community receive advance notification so arrangements can be made for students to arrive at a safe, secure location. All of these steps take time. Sometimes the safest place for our students and staff is right here at school.

Thank you!