Colder weather means that when precipitation falls, there is an increasing chance of snow or ice that could cause the closure of Dallas ISD schools. Find out how the decision to close schools is made and how that decision is communicated below.
When freezing precipitation is expected, a decision to open or close schools considers several factors:
- In the event of inclement weather, the decision to open or close schools will be made no later than 6 a.m. on the day in question.
- Classes will not be held if it is determined that buses are unable to operate safely; if electric service at schools is disrupted; or if natural gas to schools is curtailed.
- The procedure for making the decision to close schools begins early in the morning when school personnel in each area of the city drive the streets near the neighborhood schools to check road conditions. Personnel confer with the weather bureau, police department, and gas and utility companies about forecasts, road conditions, and available energy for heating the buildings. The findings are reported to the superintendent of schools, who makes the final decision to open or close schools.
Read the entire Dallas ISD inclement weather policy here.
If schools are open for the day, classes will be conducted for the entire school day to prevent inconveniencing working parents or disrupting the learning environment.
Information about closing schools is communicated in these ways:
- Local radio and TV stations will be informed by 6 a.m. of a closure.
- Automated phone calls stating whether schools are to be open or closed are made as soon as possible to parents and staff.
- Information is posted to www.dallasisd.org and also the district Facebook and Twitter pages.
- A recorded message is placed on the district’s information line at 972-925-3700.
