It is getting to be that time of year when snow, ice, and extreme cold may cause disruptions to the school day. Below is an overview of how the South Burlington School District makes decisions regarding weather-related delays and closures.
How We Monitor Weather and Road Conditions: Throughout the winter months, we closely watch the forecast for snow, ice, and extreme cold. The website we trust most for accurate regional information is the National Weather Service Burlington “Schools” page.
We also remain in close communication with South Burlington Public Works, South Burlington Police, and our own facilities and transportation staff as we drive roads throughout the city.
Whenever possible, we will make the decision to close school the evening before. However, changing conditions sometimes require early-morning decisions. Our final deadline for making a determination is 5:15 a.m. Please note that SchoolMessenger phone calls can occasionally be delayed when many districts issue notices at the same time.
Cold Weather Guidelines: The district does not use a strict temperature cut-off for cancellation, but we rely on the National Weather Service Wind Chill Chart as a guide. In addition, we monitor:
Road and sidewalk conditions
Plowing and sanding progress
Whether buses can safely operate on time
The impact of wind chill on students who walk or wait at bus stops
We generally hold school if temperatures remain within the lightest blue zone on the wind-chill chart and buses are running smoothly. However, we may close when the wind chill reaches –15°F or colder for a sustained period. Every decision prioritizes student safety.
Families know their children best. If you believe conditions near your home are unsafe, we respect your decision to keep your child home.
When South Burlington Schools Close
All evening events at Orchard, Rick Marcotte, Gertrude Chamberlin, and Frederick H. Tuttle Middle School are canceled.
Schools Out programs are canceled.
Decisions regarding South Burlington High School activities will be made during the day, based on actual conditions.
Regional Tech Center transportation (BTC and CTE) is not provided.
Preschool is canceled.
Outplacement Schools (e.g., Bellcate, Stern, Jean Garvin, Baird, & New School of Montpelier ) are cancelled.
Community groups scheduled to use school facilities (youth sports, Scouts, Parks & Rec, etc.) will have their events canceled unless otherwise communicated.
When South Burlington Schools DELAY (typically a 2-hour delay)
Morning preschool is canceled.
Tech Center morning transportation (BTC/CTE) is canceled.
School's In is canceled.
School’s Out Early Education is delayed opening by two hours.
School start times shift by two hours; bus pick-up times adjust accordingly.
How We Communicate Closures and Delays
Once a decision is made, we will:
Send a phone call, email, and text message through SchoolMessenger (with the understanding that phone calls may sometimes be delayed during heavy regional use).
Post updates on the district website.
Share the information on the South Burlington School District Facebook page.
Notify local media outlets.
Thank you for your flexibility as we navigate winter in Vermont. Our goal is always to make decisions that prioritize safety and to communicate those decisions clearly and promptly.
Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy the season! Go Wolves!