Schools to Remain Open if Buses Can Run - National Weather Service Weather Warning 2/28/2024
Dear parents and guardians,
The National Weather Service has issued a WINTER STORM WARNING effective from Thursday, February 29, at 4 AM, until Sunday, March 3, at 4 AM. They anticipate heavy rains, snow/hail, and strong southwest winds of 20 to 35 mph, with gusts to exceed 70 mph, affecting areas throughout Del Norte County.
Ensuring the safety and health of our students is our utmost priority. The upcoming weather forecast predicts conditions that pose significant challenges, including the risk of downed trees and power lines, which may lead to widespread power outages. Additionally, travel might become difficult due to potential landslides and icy roads. Please review how these forecasted conditions may affect school operations on Thursday, February 29th, and Friday, March 1st:
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Schools Will Remain Open if Buses Can Run: Schools will continue operations provided buses can safely run and meals can be prepared for students. In the event of hazardous road conditions, specific bus routes may be canceled. We are closely monitoring the situation and will assess the weather and road conditions early in the morning at 5:00 AM. For students residing in Gasquet and Klamath, adverse weather may lead to sending students home earlier than scheduled to ensure their safety if weather conditions worsen throughout the day. Should the situation arise, we will inform parents promptly, and arrangements will be made for students to be dropped off at either Mountain School (for Gasquet students) or Margaret Keating School (for Klamath students), where they will remain under supervision until picked up by a parent or guardian.
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Communication in Case of Power Outages: In the event of a power outage, please stay informed by listening to KCRE 94.3 FM radio for up-to-date information. If necessary, we will send emails, text messages and make phone calls to provide information on the status of school operations. If school needs to be canceled, communications will go out at 5:30 AM in the morning. Please take a moment and confirm your child’s contact information is up to date by contacting the school office.
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Road Closures: In the morning, please drive safely and allow more time to travel. If you’re unable to take your children to their usual school due to road closures, please inform their school immediately and seek guidance from the school office on alternative arrangements. If alternative arrangements cannot be made, your children will be eligible for an excused absence due to hazardous driving conditions.
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Preparing for School Attendance: Please ensure your child is dressed appropriately for the weather conditions.
We appreciate your understanding and support as we address the challenges presented by these weather conditions. Rest assured, we are diligently working with Caltrans, the California Highway Patrol, our local Office of Emergency Services, and the National Weather Service to assess the situation and ensure the safety and well-being of both our students and staff in all decisions made.
Stay safe.