Calling snow days is a tricky science for Mass. school superintendents

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Are school districts in Massachusetts cancelling class over less snow lately? Some superintendents say yes. Here's why.

On the eve of a winter storm that was supposed to drop 8 to 12 inches of snow across much of Massachusetts, dozens of districts called off Tuesday classes. Then, the forecast shifted. And by Tuesday morning, families were left with the kids at home and little snow for them to play in.

But Zrike and other Massachusetts school leaders were quick to point out several reasons for the shift. Over the years, community members began to ask school leaders to call snow days earlier. They argued parents needed more time to coordinate child care. Superintendents noted other factors weigh on their minds when bad weather looms, like transportation for kids who don't live in the district's city limits.

Transportation companies contracted with districts to handle those door-to-door services often won't give rides in places hit hard by heavy snowfall.Zrike and Abeyta both noted that when snowstorms are headed their schools' way, they need to ensure kids who walk to school can make the trek along safe paths. The clearing of sidewalks can happen slowly, and school leaders worry children coming to class on foot may walk in busy city roadways to avoid snow, ice and slush.

"We used to be accustomed to having snow," said Scott."And you mentally adjusted to the fact that three or four inches isn't that much when you've already had eight and 10 and 12 inches or more."

 

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