Virtual Learning A Top Option On Snow Days In Vernon

VERNON, CT — Vernon Superintendent of Schools Joseph Macary Tuesday outlined the winter procedures for inclement weather, including the potential use of virtual learning days to replace snow days.

"The winter season is almost upon us. The district administration understands that our decision to open or close schools due to inclement weather has an impact on families," Macary said in a late-afternoon letter to parents. "We also understand that our students are better served — both academically and socially — by being in school. However, as always, our top priority is the safety and well-being of our students."

Macary said the decision to open or close schools during inclement or hazardous weather is based on "a careful analysis of all relevant factors," based on information on road conditions from the Vernon Department of Public Works, police department, and the school's transportation company.

"We give careful consideration to the most dangerous roads in the district," He said. "The Town of Vernon has many winding and hilly streets. Even if a street looks clear, travel elsewhere in the district may be dangerous, especially in the higher elevation areas of Vernon. Also, we consider that many high school students drive themselves to school."

Macary said school system officials "prefer to not make our decisions based solely on weather predictions, which are not always 100 percent accurate," but also admitted sometimes that is "unavoidable." The amount of snow and ice accumulated and forecasted is a major factor in the decision to close school, he said, as are temperature and wind chill factors are also important as students wait outside for the bus or walk to school.

He said building conditions are a factor, particularly during the coronavirus pandemic.

"Our schools need to be a safe, healthy, and secure environment for all students, staff, and visitors, especially during COVID-19," Macary said. "Issues such as whether we have electricity and heat are critical factors to consider. Parking lot conditions and entry ways need to be safe and passable for all students, staff, and visitors."

Vernon shares information with 10 other local school districts via a conference call in the event of a storm, but ultimately it's a local decision

"As the superintendent of schools, I am responsible for the final decision, based on the above factors and recommendations from the Public Works Department, Vernon Police Department, the school bus Company, the Town/District Facilities Department and our consulting meteorologist, Macary said.

Decisions are relayed to area media outlets, he said. Parents can also sign up for text messages, calls and emails from the school system. Parents and Guardians should also make sure their current emergency contact information has been given to the schools. Parents should not not call the school unless it is an emergency, Macary said.

A decision needs to be made by 5:30 a.m. because bus routes begin at about 5:45 a.m. and families need to know before parents head off to their jobs, he said.

If school is on and conditions worsen during the school day, the need may arise for an early dismissal, Macary said.

"Wee will give adequate notice to all parents first," he said. "Although my staff and I do our absolute best in this process, weather conditions can be unpredictable. If you do not feel as though it is safe for your child to attend school, use your best judgment on whether they should attend. Also, please discourage teenagers from driving in bad conditions and offer them alternatives if weather conditions worsen."

Based on the Oct. 7 Connecticut State Board for Education meeting, superintendents may choose to treat snow days as a remote learning days or what are called virtual learning day in Vernon. Macary said they are viable options to relieve stress on the calendar.

"The Vernon public schools may use this option of a virtual learning day instead of a snow day cancellation that would be added as a make-up day in June for the 2020-2021 school year," Macary said. "School days during the year from December to March are more valuable instructional time for teaching and learning than those in June. Our plan is to use this VLD as an official school day as much as possible, unless there are other factors — like no electrical power in Vernon — that would not allow us to use computers or the internet at students' homes."

Maximizing student learning for all children is the primary goal, Macary said.

"School administration and Vernon teachers will use our digital technology platforms to assign academic work during a VLD for all students. Students and families should be prepared to access the virtual learning option with short notice, due to New England weather," Macary said. "We hope that this explanation helps everyone understand the process that our district utilizes to make the best possible decision for all students and staff in our district."