Winter Weather Procedures
Canceling school is a complicated decision that affects scholars, staff and families. This page explains the process and the factors that are considered when making the decision on whether to close.
Who makes the decision?
Following input from multiple sources, the Chief of Staff & Executive Director of Public Safety & School Security provides the Superintendent with a recommendation on whether to cancel school due to the winter weather. Ultimately, the final decision is then made by the Superintendent.
When is a decision made?
If classes need to be canceled, GRPS will strive to make a decision the evening before, giving families and staff more time to adjust. However, weather forecasts are often uncertain at that time. In such cases, GRPS will finalize and communicate the decision by 6 a.m. on the morning of the closure to ensure timely notifications.
How is a decision reached?
Safety is always at the center of our decision-making.
The decision-making process begins as soon as winter weather is forecasted. GRPS leaders closely monitor updates from local meteorologists to stay informed. When there is a potential for school cancellations, the National Weather Service Grand Rapids Office hosts a webinar the evening before, providing school leaders with the latest forecast and expected road conditions for the morning.
To inform a decision, the Transportation Director of Dean Transportation will provide input on road conditions and the Executive Director of Facilities provides an update on efforts to clear school parking lots and sidewalks.
During this decision-making process, the Superintendent is also in discussions with neighboring district leaders to learn more about conditions across Kent County.
We must also consider that our schools provide scholars with a safe and stable place to learn. Some scholars rely on the school district for breakfast and lunch. Canceling school also causes families additional hardships related to finding childcare.
How do I get snow day alerts?
Emails, robocalls, and text messages are sent to all GRPS families and staff once a decision to cancel school is made. It is important that your contact information is accurate in ParentVue to receive these alerts. You may also download our Mobile App for instant notifications.
School closing notifications can also be found on GRPS social media pages and local TV stations WOOD TV8, WZZM 13 On Your Side, Fox 17, and WWMT Newschannel 3.
When is it too cold for outdoor recess?
To ensure the safety and well-being of our scholars and staff:
- Indoor recess is required when the wind chill or "feels like" temperature drops below 0ºF.
- Principals may exercise discretion to hold indoor recess even if this threshold is not met, considering other factors such as icy playground conditions.
