Skip To Main Content

School Closings and Delays

The safety of our students and staff is the top priority when we consider closing or delaying school. We understand that these decisions have a significant impact on families, and we aim to make the best possible call based on a variety of factors.

When do you make the decision?


We strive to make a decision as early as possible, typically by 5:30 am. 

How do we find out?

Website
ParentSquare
VCSD Social Media
Local TV & Radio Stations 

Key Factors for Our Decision
 

  • Road Conditions: We consult with our transportation team, local law enforcement, and highway departments to assess whether roads are safe for buses and student drivers. We consider factors like ice, snow accumulation, and visibility.
     

  • Weather and Temperature: Extremely cold temperatures, especially wind chill, can pose a risk of frostbite. The NYS Department of Health recommends that school districts use a wind chill of approximately -25F as the temperature to consider closing schools. Because every situation is unique, Superintendents may also use their own judgment when wind chills are between -20 and -25 for extended periods of time. We also monitor for severe weather events like ice storms, blizzards, or heavy rain that could make travel hazardous or impact building safety.
     

  • Building and Utilities: In rare cases, a school may need to close due to issues like a power outage, a problem with the heating system, or a water main break.
     

  • Other Emergencies: We may close school in response to other emergencies that affect public safety, such as a community-wide incident or a health advisory.