Some busy mornings over here lately and the phones have been ringing a lot asking about school closings. Well first of all, we have absolutely nothing to do with it other than let you know what’s going on. And we do that both on the air and on our website at WHDG dot com the best we can.
For example, we had delays Monday and Tuesday but none today and I’d be very surprised if there are not cancellations for Friday because the windchill will be in excess of 40-below. Those decisions are made by school administrators and the bus company, with input if necessary from the Sheriff’s Department. All those calls just slow down the process to get the word out.
The first decision is always the safety of the students and staff. Second, road conditions and if the busses can run. That also includes frigid temperatures so kids don’t have to be exposed to any extreme cold for too long. Lastly, and this happens more often than not, it could be something that’s happened in any given district like no power, broken water main or other problem that will idle buildings.
We use a unique program called, “Weather Threat” where schools no longer have to call in at all hours to inform us what’s going on. Now they just log on, click a few boxes and it appears on our website. There are still a few that haven’t signed up but we deal with about 60 schools, it’s a work in process.
So there you go. It’s going to be brutal outdoors through the weekend so stay warm and crank up the radio here for info and the best country on the radio! Or, whatever else you’re listening to! 🙂
MM