Metro Detroit school superintendents are facing difficult decisions this week as an Arctic blast threatens to bring dangerous wind chills that could force school closures across the region.
The National Weather Service predicts wind chills could plummet to 20-30 degrees below zero through Wednesday, (Jan. 21), posing significant safety risks for students and staff.
“Whether it’s a snow day or a cold day – the primary priority for making these calls is always, always, always student safety,” said Dr. RJ Webber, Superintendent of Northville Public Schools.
The situation is particularly challenging as many districts have already used some of their allotted weather-related closure days.
Michigan schools are permitted six closure days, with the option to request up to three additional days. Districts that go over may need to extend their school year to make up for lost time.
In Oakland County, superintendents have a process for weather events.
They typically convene over a conference call the day before to review forecasts and share information.
After these discussions, each district makes its final decision based on local conditions and circumstances.
“We need to make sure we are looking at what’s best geographically for every district because there is a variance across southeast Michigan,” said Nicholas Russo, Superintendent of Rochester Community Schools.
The National Weather Service issues cold weather advisories when wind chill temperatures range from -15 to -24 degrees.
Key factors in closure decisions include:
- Wind chill temperatures
- Road conditions
- Walking conditions for students
- Bus stop safety
- Staff travel conditions
School administrators acknowledge the broader impact of closure decisions on families.
“All of us as superintendents really don’t enjoy calling snow days or weather days because we know we provide a service for so many families that is essential, well beyond education,” Webber said.
Districts are working to communicate decisions as early as possible to allow families time to make alternative arrangements.