Delayed Opening Procedures For North Babylon Schools

October 1, 2007

Dear Parents and Colleagues:

To resolve the dilemma of whether or not schools should open when inclement weather exists, a “Delayed School Opening” procedure will be utilized this school year. This procedure is being implemented to avoid losing school days unnecessarily, as well as to allow additional time to see if weather conditions improve.

On such weather days, when it appears that a delayed opening would permit the District to transport children safely, schools will open one or two hours later than usual. Bus transportation will follow the delayed schedule. For example, if a child usually boards a bus at 8:10 AM, the delayed time would be either 9:10 AM (for a one hour delay) or 10:10 AM (for a two hour delay). Announcement of delayed openings will be broadcast on the following stations: WALK (97.5 FM / 1370 AM); WBAB (102.3 FM); WBLI (106.1 FM); WBZO (103.1 FM); WHLI (1100 AM); WGBB (1240 AM); CHANNEL 12 NEWS; WNBC-TV. In addition, parents and staff will be notified by telephone through the district’s automated notification system. The delayed opening procedure also applies to all North Babylon children who attend private and parochial schools. School will end at the regular time and transportation home will follow the regular afternoon bus schedule.

Ordinarily, North Babylon Schools will NOT DISMISS STUDENTS EARLY unless a severe weather condition exists. In the unlikely event of an early dismissal, parents can assist in ensuring their children’s safe arrival at home by:

(1)  Being on alert that an early dismissal might occur when afternoon weather conditions appear questionable;

(2)  Listening for announcements on the above-mentioned stations;

(3)  Expecting a telephone call through the district’s automated notification system;

(4)  Making certain that the Emergency Contact Card is on file in the school and

      is updated with all current telephone numbers; and

(5)  Making certain that the Early Dismissal Card is on file and properly completed (for all elementary and middle school students).

With your cooperation, we are confident that these procedures will provide safe conditions for our students and staff on questionable weather days, while minimizing interruptions to our children’s education.

Sincerely,

Joseph A. Laria, Ph.D.

Interim Superintendent of Schools