Weather watchers say we’re in for a cold and wet winter—unless they’re mistaken. Either way, it’s important to know how to prepare yourself and your family for winter conditions and their impact on the school day. Here are some things to remember about how GCPS handles school cancellations for inclement weather:
GCPS schools and facilities may close in the event of hazardous weather or other emergencies that present threats to the safety of students, staff, or school property. The key factor in all decisions about whether or not to hold school is the safety of students and staff.
The superintendent makes the decision about school closing based on information from a number of sources, including public safety officials, the Georgia Emergency Management Agency, county officials, and the state Department of Transportation. In addition, when inclement weather is an issue, members of the GCPS Facilities and Operations team head out as early as 3:30 or 4 a.m. to drive around the county and assess road conditions. The school system’s Transportation staff also ensures that buses are operable. (Extreme cold can cause operational problems for diesel buses.) Facilities are checked in the early hours, and GCPS works with power providers as needed. Local school principals gather information for the leadership team about specific school conditions.
It’s more likely for school to be cancelled in the early morning—due to hazardous road conditions that formed overnight—than for school to let out early because bad weather is moving in.
The district may call for a Digital Learning Day (DLD) for all students if schools are unable to offer in-person instruction due to issues with transportation and/or utilities.
Full-day cancellations and unscheduled DLDs usually are announced by 6 a.m.
When bad weather causes school to be cancelled, dismissed early, or open with a delayed start, watch for public announcements on GCPS TV, on the school system’s website, on social media (Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram), through SchoolMessenger calls and optional texts, and via metro-Atlanta radio and television stations. (If you haven’t yet opted into text messages from SchoolMessenger, it’s easy! Just text the word “SUBSCRIBE” to the number 67587. Add 1-844-248-6644 to your Contacts list as Gwinnett County Public Schools to identify incoming messages.)
Remember, GCPS announces only school closing information. The school system does not issue an announcement when school will be in session as scheduled.
Making up missed school days
The 2021-22 school calendar does not include designated inclement weather make-up days. GCPS will make up any inclement weather days (full-day cancellations) by using Digital Learning Days, and/or extending the school day or year.