Despite Five Snow Days, Wilmington Not Seeking Alternative Makeup Methods

Wilmington students likely weren’t thrilled when they had to attend their first day of school before Labor Day, but they’re going to be excited with the district’s decision following one of the worst winters in the town’s recent history.

Because of the town’s early report date, Superintendent of Schools Joanne Benton said she is not yet concerned about seeking alternative ways to make up time missed because of snow.

School has now been cancelled five times this winter, equaling the number of snow days built into the district calendar.

Even after another cancellation on Wednesday, the last day of school remains slated for June 20. By state regulation, schools must be out of session by the end of June. Wilmington still has eight potential makeup days before this issue surfaces.

Earlier today, Commissioner of Education Mitchell D. Chester sent a letter to every Massachusetts superintendent addressing the high number of snow cancellations.

“This is turning out to be a difficult winter, and many districts have had to cancel school for several days due to severe weather, which has promoted inquiries about waivers from the 180-day minimum school requirement,” said Chester in the letter. “There is still time for districts that have had to close for multiple days to adjust their calendars to ensure that our students do not lose out on valuable learning time.”

Chester said schools can cancel or shorten vacations, hold school days on Saturdays, keep school open on Good Friday or add days later in June beyond the originally schedule last day of school.

Benton said the only option Wilmington is currently considering is adding days in June.

“We start before Labor Day precisely for the reason that some years, winters are bad and more days are needed,” said Benton, who said lightheartedly, “now, let’s just hope we don’t have a heat wave at the end of June.”