Tri-City schools are already making plans for snowy weather that could start as early as this weekend.
While snow is in the weather forecast beginning Saturday night, schools will likely remain open even if the white stuff continues to fall throughout the week as Environment Canada currently suggests.
“We like a winter wonderland,” superintendent Patricia Gartland acknowledged Tuesday as snowfall was predicted for early next week.
As of Thursday morning, Environment Canada was predicting snow Saturday night and snow or or rain next week, with flurries mostly at night when temperatures dip to zero.
However, Gartland said schools do not not routinely close due to snow or other poor weather.
There could be a partial closure in micro-climates hit hardest by snow, Gartland said, but information will be communicated to parents by 6:30 a.m. so families can plan.
“We try to make the best decisions to keep school in session,” Gartland said.
According to the SD43 website, announcements for schools remaining open will not be made; only cancellations, closures or delayed school openings will be announced.
In the case of snow, parents are advised to check the district home page, where a banner will be placed on the home page that can be clicked for more information. Information will also be announced on the @sd43bcTwitter feed, as well as CKNW AM 980, CKWX 1130 and CBC (690) radio stations (AM band).
Families should also plan for a longer than normal walk or commute, with possible major delays. If driving, families should be extra cautious in student pick-up and drop-off zones.
Traffic and buses may be affected by the weather, and SD43 recommends families visit the TransLink or DriveBC Road Report websites for applicable updates.
