Severe and Winter Weather

  • The decision to close school is complex with many factors to consider. When making a decision to close or delay school, student safety is the district’s top priority. Generally, the expectation is that school will remain open, so learning can continue as scheduled, however there are times when closing or delaying school may be necessary. This information is intended to be a guide, when unusual circumstances occur.
     
    When will a decision to close or delay school be made?
    When possible, the decision to close or delay the start of school will be made by 5:30 a.m.
     
    How will families be notified?
    • District website
    • Automated call, email and text
    • Facebook and Twitter
    • News stations: WCCO, KSTP, KMSP (FOX 9) and KARE 11

    New for 2018 – Text messaging!
    Brooklyn Center Community Schools utilizes a mass notification system to communicate with families and staff members through voicemails and emails. New this year, we will request families to opt-in to receive text messages from the district. You can participate in this service by sending a text message of “Y” or “Yes” to our school’s short code number, 67587. You can also opt out of these messages at any time by simply replying to one of our messages with “Stop.” 

    What factors are considered?
    In the case of weather, street conditions, snow removal at school buildings, projected snowfall, temperature, wind conditions, time of day, traffic, and conditions in surrounding districts.
     
    Who makes the decision to close school?
    All decisions to close or delay school are made by the superintendent or her designee. The superintendent consults with the director of operations as well as surrounding area superintendents. As a parent you reserve the right to keep your child home if you believe the weather is too hazardous (even if the district does not close). If school has not been canceled and you choose to keep your child home, please call the school absence line and the absence will be an excused absence.
     
    What can families do to be prepared?
    • Have a backup plan for your children in the event school is closed, closes early, or is delayed
    • Discuss your backup plan with your children so they know what to do
    • Make sure your contact information is up to date with your child’s school
    • Ensure that your children are dressed appropriately for winter weather conditions

    How do I know if my bus is running late?
    Brooklyn Center Community Schools launched an innovative app to keep students safe and families in the loop. The Here Comes the Bus mobile app allows students and families to know when their assigned school bus has entered the neighborhood. Click here to learn more about the Here Comes the Bus mobile app.
     
    Transportation from Northwest Suburban Integration School District
    For families that receive transportation through Northwest Suburban Integration School District, please click here to view Northwest Suburban's transportation guidelines in the event of school closings.