Winter weather returned to the Rockies last night. There are a few helpful things for us to remember as we make this seasonal adjustment as a community.
First, if the Salida School District does take a snow day, that notification will come through the Salida Schools App. If you haven't yet downloaded that tool, the links are:
Android at http://aptg.co/_HS595
iPhone at https://aptg.co/F0PmY4
When the forecast calls for significant snow accumulation, a number of things happen. The superintendent begins discussing the weather and road conditions with the transportation and maintenance managers by 4 a.m. The maintenance teams have started snow removal by that time. The Transportation manager communicates directly with the Sheriff's office, State Patrol, and the individuals running the plows regarding real-time road conditions. The team focuses on whether we can safely run buses and enter school buildings, decisions impacted by the volume and timing of the snow. If those conditions are a go, then school will run as scheduled. The District understands the far reaching effects to all of the families, community and businesses, and will avoid the closure of school as much as possible.
While the District is making a decision about running buses, and works to clear parking lots and access points, each family has to make their own decision about conditions and respond accordingly. We are all responsible for our own safety in the face of snow and winter weather.
Snowy weather is part of the experience of living in the Arkansas River Valley, and preparedness is key. CDOT provides this quick, easy resource to make sure you are ready for winter driving conditions:
https://www.codot.gov/travel/winter-driving/winter-preparedness
Be safe out there, and enjoy the shift to winter adventure and activities.