Dear West Genesee Families,
Happy New Year! I hope this message finds you well. We have turned the proverbial corner and are approaching a midpoint of the school year. There is a positive momentum with a commitment to continue our work together in growth and success.
In any discussion about weather, you would likely receive varied trends of preferences. Some hope for snow due to enthusiasm for outdoor ventures and some tolerate cold weather as a way to appreciate the warmth of a blanket or fireplace. Ultimately, our own hopes and expectations have little influence on the variety of weather changes that are inevitable in Central New York.
For years, I have answered questions from students regarding “snow days.” I enjoy the conversation, appreciate their patience when listening to the explanation of the process and look forward to the inevitable attempt to sway me in the direction of a closure. Of course, when that topic came up at home, there was a very similar reaction from my own children! (My grown children still ask “Dad, what do you think?” which causes me to remind them I do not have the credentials of meteorologist!) I remind them that, in all cases, the decision is based solely on the priority of safety.
It is important to know is that there is a great deal of conversation, observation, and analysis of conditions that go into the decision of emergency closures. This includes considerations of current conditions, effectiveness of resources, and predictions and timing of weather patterns. Snow amounts and rates, road conditions, wind impacts, ice potential, downed powerlines, falling tree limbs are among the factors considered. This is true throughout the community and on our school campuses. A determination is made with a goal of communicating information as early and quickly as is possible.
This week’s emergency closing of East Hill Elementary School and the atypical early release of West Genesee Intermediate and Stonehedge Elementary schools in late November involved the unexpected loss of power. Thank you to all students, parents, and staff for the “pivot” necessary with an unanticipated change. We always strive for our communication systems to provide timely information.
Please continue to be aware of potential cancelations, late arrivals, or the rare early dismissal and monitor communications for the most updated information available.
Thank you,
David C. Bills, Superintendent of Schools