6114.6 - Emergency Closings
P6114.6
Instruction
Emergency Closings
Every attempt will be made to keep schools open according to the calendar approved by the Board of Education. However, there are times when emergency closing of schools is necessary.
Closing of schools, late opening, or early dismissal for inclement weather or emergency conditions will be decided by the Superintendent of Schools or designee based upon the best possible information available.
The Superintendent will consult with Newtown Police Department, Department of Public Works, local meteorologists, local Superintendents and Newtown Public School’s Director of Facilities, as appropriate, to determine the need to close or delay school.
The Superintendent or designee will notify the Building Principals, the Bus Company, and the Maintenance Department/Head Custodian as soon as a decision is reached.
In the case of closing the schools for weather or emergencies, administrators and non-certified personnel should make every effort to reach their assigned duties as soon as roads are passable or the emergency condition is deemed safe by school administrators.
Emergency or discretionary leave may be used for those unable to reach a building unless the Superintendent or designee feels conditions are severe enough that all employees are dismissed from attending work.
Every effort will be made to notify impacted school community of the status of opening, by phone, by posting on the District web site, by email and through television and radio broadcasts.
(cf. 6111 - School Year/School Calendar)
Legal Reference: Connecticut General Statutes
10-15 Towns to maintain schools.
Policy adopted: March 19, 2024
Newtown Public Schools
NEWTOWN, CT