SCHOOL DELAYS & CLOSINGS
Living in northwestern Pennsylvania, we must anticipate inclement weather conditions that may require school delays or closings. A school delay/closing may occur because of unsafe roads, heating failure, lack of water, or other unforeseen circumstances. Should this be necessary during the school year, the following radio stations will make an emergency announcement beginning at 6:00 am or as soon as conditions determine an emergency exists: WKST 1200 AM New Castle; WBZY 1280 AM New Castle; KDKA 1020 AM Pittsburgh; WKBN 570 AM Youngstown WWGY 95.1 FM Youngstown. The District also utilizes School Messenger, an automatic calling system that alerts the student's contact phone number. The Laurel District website (www.laurelspartans.com) in addition to the Laurel School phone number (724-658-8940) will have updated announcements regarding delays or cancellations. School closings are announced on a daily basis. Please do not call the radio stations because this creates problems at the switchboard. In the event that make-up days are required, the school calendar will be followed.
The District may utilize a two hour delay starting schedule during heavy fog, icy roads, or heavy snowfall in order for conditions to alleviate and to give road crews time to salt and clear roadways. These announcements will also be made via radio stations and and be posted on the district website and the district's phone number. If an early dismissal from school is required due to the forecast of heavy snow or the approach of unsafe conditions, the information will be broadcast as soon as possible on the aforementioned means. During the winter season, parents are requested to be alert to changing weather conditions and the possibility that their children may be dismissed early. Parents who are working or away from home during the day should instruct their child about what to do if he/she arrives home early. Arrangements should be made with an adult relative, friend, or neighbor to look after the child until a parent returns home. If you have special problems, please contact your child's building principal to resolve these concerns.
PLEASE NOTE: Buses will transport Jr/Sr High School students first, then immediately return to the Elementary School for dismissal of elementary students.
Please remind your children to dress properly during the winter months and to wait at the bus stop for a reasonable period of time before returning home. Bus pick up will depend upon the severity of the weather. It is important that parents remind children to wait for the bus at a safe distance from the highway since it is often difficult for drivers to see the road during a snowstorm. Your cooperation is greatly appreciated.
Although students are expected to attend school when possible, parental discretion may determine whether or not the child can get to the bus stop safely under severe weather conditions without endangering his/her health. Under such conditions, students will be given a legal excuse from the Compulsory Attendance Laws of Pennsylvania.
EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS
The Laurel School District updates yearly its Emergency Operations Plan (EOP). The purpose of this plan is to identify and respond to incidents by outlining the responsibilities and duties of the District and its employees, students, and families. This plan provides parents/guardians and other members of the community with assurances that Laurel School District has established guidelines and procedures to respond in an effective way to threats and hazards that may occur.
The best strategy is for maintaining the safety and security of schools is prevention. The goals of the Laurel School District's Emergency Operations Plan is to protect students and staff; protect school property, and establish a climate conducive to learning. The District conducts monthly, bi-yearly, and annual drills and practices related to the Emergency Operations Plan. In the event of a hazard or threat, the District has specific communication plans to alert not only the campus community but also parents and community members. If you have any specific concerns regarding Emergency Preparedness, please contact your child's building principal or the District Office.
