District 87 Wintry Weather information

Dear Bloomington District 87 Parent,

Winter presents challenges for all of us. As Superintendent, it is my responsibility to decide what to do in response to inclement weather. The safety of our 5,800 students is my first concern. I will do everything possible to ensure that your child is safe on his/her way to school, while at school and again on his/her way home.

The decision to close school will be announced as early as possible. We will notify local radio and television stations of school closings as soon as possible and we will also post school closing information on our district's homepage.

Once students are in school, I am reluctant to dismiss school early. Let me explain why.

We have a significant number of children who would go home to an empty house. In some cases, children would not be able to get into their home. A significant number of our parents would not hear of our closing due to where they work, meaning they would not be able to get home.

Parents know where their children are while in school. I am not sure the same would be true if we dismissed early.

Our students are safe, warm and fed while at school. Schools are the safest place a child can be.

If parents want to pick their children up at school prior to the regular dismissal time, they may do so. Parents always have the right to do what they feel is in the best interest of their child. We will not interfere with this right

If I can answer any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me.

Sincerely yours,

Robert S. Nielsen