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Inclement Weather Information

When winter weather arrives, questions about school closings due to snow and other severe conditions are common. This guide provides answers to frequently asked questions, helping families stay informed and prepared for any schedule changes. Decisions to close, delay, or dismiss early are based on road conditions, weather forecasts, and the ability of our buses to transport students safely. We understand that unexpected closings can disrupt schedules, so we aim to communicate decisions as quickly and clearly as possible. Use this guide to find information on how we determine closings, where to find updates, and what you can expect when weather impacts the school day. 

Commonly Asked Questions

How many "snow days" are built into the District's calendar?

Five emergency closing days are built into the calendar for the 2024-2025 school year. These non-instructional days can be used for “snow days” or other emergencies. As an example, they could also be used for flooding, a broken water pipe, or power outages. 

When is the decision made?

The decision to close school or delay opening is most commonly made early in the morning so we have time to notify staff and parents/guardians with as much advance notice as possible. 

How do we make the decision and who is involved in the process?

The decision is made based on road conditions, as well as planning for the event of an impending storm. The Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent work with the highway superintendents of the surrounding towns, as well as the District’s Facilities Department. 

Rondout Valley covers more than 150 square miles of geographical area, where some areas have higher terrains, mountainous roads, and even unpaved roads, which all are put into consideration when making the decision to close schools. 

The District also collaborates with the superintendents of the component districts and Ulster BOCES. 

How is the school community notified of weather issues? 

We send a voice message and an email through our Student Management System, Infinite Campus. 
In addition we will post a notice on our website and post to our social media pages (Facebook, Instagram, and X).

The closure is also shared with HV Storm Center, NBC Channel 4 NY, WKNY, WABC NY, Schoolclosings.org, School Closings Network (WNYT-TV, WRGB-TV, WTN XXA), and Spectrum News Channel 6. 

Two Hour Delay/Early Dismissal Information

Two Hour Delay bell schedules can be found on the school websites. 

If conditions deteriorate while students are in school, the Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent will make a decision to close school early. Dismissal times vary based on the impending storm. 

What should parents do?

  • Make sure all emergency contact information is up to date, such as address, phone numbers, and name of emergency contacts. You can view this information in the InfiniteCampus Parent Portal. To make updates, you can email rvregistration@rondout.k12.ny.us
  • Have a backup plan in case schools are closed, delayed, or released early.
  • Monitor listed information sites (website, social media, etc.) and avoid calling schools to help keep phone lines open.