Winter Weather and Transportation Reminders

Winter Weather Procedures

Throughout the school year, SoWashCo Schools may enter into an emergency closure, e-learning day (extended-learning day) or a late start due to bad weather or other situations in which school cannot be held in person. 

The decision to move to an emergency closure for weather will generally be made by 5 a.m. the morning of a cancellation for weather. Depending on forecast certainty, the decision may be made the evening before a cancellation.

SNOWY WEATHER: Cancellations may occur due to snow, ice or hazardous road conditions that make it extremely hazardous or impossible for school buses to travel their routes.

COLD WEATHER: Cancellations may occur if the expected forecast for 6 a.m. shows that the wind chill will be -35 Fahrenheit or colder and the National Weather Service issues a wind chill warning.

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Winter Transportation Reminders

As winter weather sets in, it’s essential to keep our school bus riders safe, warm, and prepared for the season. Snowy mornings and chilly afternoons can present unique challenges, but with a little preparation, we can work together to ensure smooth and safe transportation for all. Here are some helpful reminders and tips to make winter bus rides as comfortable and secure as possible.

Late buses:

With winter weather upon us, buses may be late. 

• Buses running 10-20 minutes late will be posted on the website: sowashco.org/services/transportation

• For buses running more than 25 minutes late, families will receive communication from the District.

Winter weather reminders:

• Students are required to be present at the bus stop upon the arrival of the bus. With winter weather upon us, many parents drive their child/children to the bus stop in the morning. Families with children waiting in vehicles should not crowd the intersection of the bus stop; park at least 5 car lengths away from the bus stop for increased visibility and space for the bus to maneuver. Students should exit the vehicle and be at the bus stop prior to the bus arriving. Having your child exit the vehicle and cross the street upon arrival of the bus can be very dangerous. Best practice is to have your child arrive at the bus stop 5 minutes prior to the scheduled arrival time. 

• Ensure your child is appropriately dressed for their walk to and from the bus stop.

• Label all items of winter clothing as many items get left behind on the bus. Labeling your child’s winter gear will help the Transportation Department get items back to students.

Bus ID cards:

All general education bus riders should be using their bus ID card each day to swipe on/off the bus. Please ensure your child has their bus ID each day. If your child’s bus ID has been lost or damaged, please complete the following form to request a new bus ID: SoWashCo Bus ID Request Form