Emergency Information

SCHOOL CLOSING DECISIONS DUE TO INCLEMENT WEATHER 

The decision to open, delay, dismiss early or close schools is based on careful analysis of all of the facts available at the time of the decision. The process of determining a school closure or delay begins the night before a weather-related event is predicted to impact this area of Connecticut. Depending on the information gathered, the decision-making process begins the next morning at approximately 4:15 a.m.

The Superintendent of Schools receives reports and information, including a report from the Farmington Highway Department to determine the condition of roads throughout the Town of Farmington. The main factor is whether or not students can travel safely to and from school. Additional considerations include: 

• the amount of snow and/or ice accumulation
• the anticipated condition of the roads at the time of travel
• whether the precipitation is predicted to continue
• the condition of our school facilities
• the parking lots and, at times, the sidewalk conditions

Several other factors such as temperature and wind chill are considered when making a decision to close or delay school. The Superintendent and team carefully review the weather forecast for the day; however, use the predictions in concert with other conditions and reports  received to make any final decision. Area Superintendents speak with one another to share information about the weather and road conditions in surrounding towns. This information is important because some of our students attend programming and/or travel outside of the school district. Although we hope to avoid the disruptions caused by school closures, delays and early dismissals, safety is the top priority in all decision-making.

The weather is not always predictable and weather forecasts shift quickly. Each weather event or unanticipated issue that impacts a normal school opening or closing is unique and requires a response specific to the weather event or unanticipated issue.

It is important to note that an inclement weather day off will be required to be made up at the end of the school year which will extend our last day of school to meet Connecticut’s 180 school day statutory requirement.

In Farmington, families are informed about delays and closures via the FPS ParentSquare App, news outlets and our website. The fastest and most reliable notification methods are the district website and the FPS ParentSquare App.

Thank you for your patience and understanding when it comes to decision-making related to school delays, early dismissals and closures due to inclement weather throughout this school year.