School closures due to weather, emergencies, or other unforeseen circumstances are a major concern for students, parents, and school staff. In Minnesota, KARE 11 plays a critical role in keeping the community informed about school closings and delays.
This article provides an in-depth look at how school closure decisions are made, how KARE 11 delivers timely information, and the broader implications of school closures. Whether you’re a parent looking for updates or an educator navigating the impact of closures, this guide has everything you need to know.
How School Closures Are Decided
School districts consider multiple factors before deciding to close schools. These decisions are made with the safety of students and staff as the top priority. The main factors influencing school closures include:
1. Severe Weather Conditions
Minnesota is known for harsh winters, which often lead to school closures due to:
Heavy snowfall – Making roads unsafe for buses and personal vehicles.
Extreme cold – Wind chills that could cause frostbite in minutes.
Ice storms – Slippery conditions making transportation hazardous.
For example, some districts close schools when temperatures drop below a certain threshold, like wind chills of -35°F or colder.
2. Road and Transportation Conditions
School districts work closely with transportation departments and local authorities to assess road safety. If buses can’t travel safely due to ice, snowdrifts, or unplowed roads, school may be canceled.
Some districts conduct early morning road checks, sometimes between 4 AM and 5 AM, before making closure announcements.
3. Power Outages and Facility Issues
If a school experiences power outages, heating failures, or water issues, it may be unsafe for students and staff to attend. In such cases, schools may close for the day or shift to remote learning if possible.
4. Health Emergencies and Public Safety
Outbreaks of flu, COVID-19, or other illnesses may force schools to close to prevent the spread of infection. Additionally, schools may close due to security threats or other emergencies.
How to Get School Closure Updates from KARE 11
KARE 11 is a trusted source for school closure announcements in the Twin Cities and surrounding areas. They provide updates through multiple channels:
1. KARE 11 TV Broadcasts
During winter storms or extreme weather events, KARE 11 provides real-time updates on school closings during its morning and evening news broadcasts.
2. KARE 11 Website
TheKARE 11 School Closings page is regularly updated with the latest information. Parents and students can check this page to see if their school is closed or delayed.
3. KARE 11 Mobile App and Alerts
KARE 11 offers a mobile app where users can sign up for push notifications about school closings. This ensures parents and students receive immediate updates on their phones.
4. Social Media Updates
KARE 11 also posts school closure updates on its Facebook and Twitter accounts, providing another way for people to stay informed.
The Impact of School Closures on Students and Families
While school closures are sometimes necessary, they can have significant effects on students, parents, and the local community.
1. Educational Disruptions
Missing multiple days of school due to weather can impact student learning. Some districts implement remote learning or extend the school year to make up for lost time.
2. Childcare Challenges for Parents
Unexpected school closures can be difficult for working parents who need to find childcare on short notice. Many parents rely on school schedules to balance their work and home responsibilities.
3. Meal Insecurity for Students
Many students rely on school-provided meals for nutrition. When schools close, families may struggle to provide additional meals at home. Some districts offer meal pickup locations during extended closures.
4. Economic Impact on Families
For parents who cannot work remotely, taking time off due to school closures can lead to lost income. This is especially challenging for hourly workers or single parents.
Notable School Closure Cases in Minnesota
January 2019: Bloomington Schools Decision to Stay Open
In January 2019, a major snowstorm led to over 400 school closures across the Twin Cities. However, Bloomington Public Schools decided to stay open, causing debate among parents.
The district’s reasoning included:
No delay policy – Bloomington didn’t have a 2-hour delay option, and a full closure was deemed unnecessary.
Road conditions were improving – The district coordinated with local authorities to ensure safe travel.
Minimizing disruptions – They recognized the impact closures could have on families.
This decision highlighted how complex school closure decisions can be, balancing safety concerns with practical challenges.
How Schools Handle Remote Learning During Closures
Many districts now have contingency plans for remote learning when schools close. These plans often include:
Live online classes – Teachers conduct lessons via Zoom or Google Meet.
Pre-recorded lessons and assignments – Allowing students to complete work at their own pace.
Distribution of laptops or tablets – Ensuring students have the technology needed to participate.
While remote learning helps maintain continuity, it also presents challenges, such as internet access issues and student engagement.
What Parents Can Do to Prepare for School Closures
Since school closures can happen unexpectedly, parents should have a plan in place. Here are some tips:
1. Sign Up for Alerts
Enroll in KARE 11 notifications or your school district’s alert system to get closure updates as soon as they’re announced.
2. Have a Backup Childcare Plan
If schools close, have a list of trusted family members, neighbors, or daycare providers who can help with childcare.
3. Keep Learning Materials at Home
Stock up on books, educational games, and learning apps to keep kids engaged if remote learning isn’t available.
4. Prepare an Emergency Kit
Have extra food, water, batteries, and other essentials in case severe weather causes extended closures or power outages.
Conclusion
School closures are an important decision that school districts do not take lightly. KARE 11 plays a key role in keeping Minnesota residents informed about school closings, using TV broadcasts, online updates, and mobile alerts.
While closures can create challenges, understanding how decisions are made and preparing in advance can help families navigate them smoothly. By staying informed through KARE 11 and having a plan in place, parents and students can better handle unexpected school closures when they arise.
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