Overbrook School for the Blind recognizes that there may be situations due to weather or other circumstances, such as lack of heat, lighting or water that may create the need to close school, delay the start time or dismiss school early. The administration considers these actions knowing the great impact schedule changes have on students, their families and staff. Our utmost responsibility is the safety of our students and staff, and this is our key focus when making decisions affecting school operations.
We will generally align our decisions to delay or close school with those of the School District of Philadelphia to the extent practicable, but will act independently as conditions warrant.
Our decision will be based on careful analysis of the most current information that includes, but is not limited to:
- The weather forecast for the day, including timing and severity
- Current and predicted road conditions
- Building conditions
- Parking and sidewalk conditions
- Student transportation needs, across multiple counties and school districts
- SEPTA’s ability to maintain bus and train operations
- Information from the surrounding counties
School closure or delay decisions will occur as early as possible, ideally on or before 5:00 AM. However, changing weather conditions and other factors may necessitate announcements issued after this timeframe. We will inform families and staff by posting this on our website, all social media and phone and email announcements through School Messenger. It is important for parents and staff to ensure that we have the most up-to-date contact information so that you can receive these alerts.
OSB respects the right of parents to decide independent of the school if they believe their child should be kept home though school is operating normally. Due to OSB having no control over transportation arrangements, we cannot ensure when transportation will arrive or the length of time your child may be on the road during inclement weather. Please consider this when deciding for your child.
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