What does it take to cancel or delay schools in bad weather? News 12's Jim Murdoch learned how a decision is made
Have you ever wondered what goes into the decision-making process to cancel or delay schools during winter weather? News 12's Jim Murdoch asked the Jackson Township superintendent.
More Stories
Have you ever wondered what goes into the decision-making process to cancel or delay schools during winter weather? News 12's Jim Murdoch asked the Jackson Township superintendent. Her answer? A lot of behind-the-scenes talking.
"You have to have a lot of conversations, my Board of Education, I speak to them as well. It's a group effort, but ultimately the decision is mine and sometimes it can be very stressful," said Jackson Schools Superintendent Nicole Pormilli.
Jackson Township is in the heaviest zone of potential snowfall for Friday. Winter storm warnings were put in place by the National Weather Service Thursday afternoon for the impending snowfall which could reach 6 inches.
"I know Jackson is pretty good with giving us a call. They give me a buzz in the morning let me know if there's a delay or if school is canceled so they do try to keep us in the loop," said Jackson parent Robert Resnyk.
Tuesday's storm began with a delayed opening for Jackson schools but quickly flipped to a full cancellation because of the freezing rain - which covered everything in a thin layer of ice and made for a tough go of it on the roads.
"Overall, I hope everybody can respect that when I put my head down at night the decision is about the safety the safety about the staff and our students," explained Pormilli.
Jackson Township is one of the largest school districts in the region encompassing 100 square miles. The weather at the east end of town is often different than at the westernmost border.
The superintendent says she's not a big fan of early dismissal because usually that comes in the middle of the worst of the weather. She says they try to alert parents the night before a winter weather event.
