by Bill Rogers

Each year Monroe Local Schools has 5 Calamity Days to use before they are required to begin making up days at the end of the term in the summer. Calamity Days are typically used during the winter, when heavy snows and ice make the roads unsafe for students. Additionally, Calamity Days are sometimes used to deal for unforeseen non-weather related circumstances that might make the closing of a school necessary, such as a water main break, no heat, and so on.

There are two options open to the school district: one hour delay, or closing. The decision isn’t taken lightly, and isn’t made without consultation. The Monroe Police Department, the State Highway Patrol, local weather stations, other administrators at nearby area schools, and building maintenance staff may all be involved in the decision. Ultimately, the superintendent or his designee make the decision final though.

The responsibility of keeping the roads clear of snowfall falls to the city, but the responsibility of clearing sidewalks for students who may walk to school is the resident’s. Please take care to clear your sidewalks of snow if you live near a school where students might be walking.

Following is a list of stations you can watch for notifications of school delays and closings:

Television

Radio

Discuss Calamity Days on The Voice