Planning Ahead for Winter Weather

Winter is upon us and along with it, the potential for inclement weather that may result in a delayed opening, early dismissal, or school closure. Aidan makes its own decisions regarding inclement weather; we do not follow DCPS’s decisions regarding closures and delays. Any decision to amend a school day is not taken lightly and is always made with consideration for the safety of all members of the Aidan community. It is worth noting that many of our teachers and staff travel to the School from considerable distances, and the School takes this into consideration. Additionally, if the School is open and you feel unsafe traveling, you should not make the commute.

Over the course of the pandemic, we have made several transitions across in-person, hybrid, and virtual learning program platforms. Our primary goals are always to have our students and staff in-person and on campus and to keep our community safe; we keep these goals in mind whenever it comes to weather-related decisions.

In the event of future school closures due to inclement weather, we wanted to share with you our approach for these days so that families may plan accordingly. Transitioning back and forth between in-person and full virtual learning requires planning time for teachers, which is why for the first day of any closures we will refer families to our asynchronous learning plans for each level. These plans will be sent out by teachers on snow days and may also be found below. For larger weather events with the potential for multiple day closures, we will assess and keep families informed.

Asynchronous Learning Plans

• Toddler
• Primary 
• Elementary

In anticipation of any significant weather events, our admin team monitors the weather closely so that we can inform families of any delays or closures as soon as possible. 

Here’s how your family can expect to hear of any weather-related closures or delays:

• Email
• Text Alerts through Remind
• Posts on Website Homepage
• WTOP Closures & Delays

In the event of a delay or closure, here’s how to proceed:

• Closures: If the school is closed for a snow day, learning for all students will be asynchronous for the first day and families should consult their respective plans. 
• Delays: If we have a delayed opening, our start time is 10:00 AM. If you receive notice that we have a delayed opening, you should bring your child to school at 10:00 AM. Please, refrain from coming earlier so as not to gum up the traffic on 27th Street. In the event of a delayed opening, Half-Day Toddlers do not come to school, and there is no online component for those children. Full-Day Toddlers come at 10:00 AM.
• Early Dismissal: If we have an early release, all students will be dismissed, and there will be no afternoon online component for any students. Families are welcome to consult their asynchronous learning plans for homework ideas. 

Predicting the weather is never easy, and we thank all of our families for your patience and partnership as we navigate the coming winter months. It is our collective hope that you and your family will find the time to enjoy any weather that comes our way. Go for a brisk, bundled up walk, sled if you can, and take time to enjoy nature and fresh air. 

Thanks,

Aidan Montessori School