KENORA – Weather – After further discussion with our Bus Operators this morning, we are all concerned that buses will run in the morning before the storm system has fully started and then have the conditions deteriorate rapidly when the storm systems join . Current conditions indicate that snow is just starting in most areas but there wasn’t any significant accumulation overnight.
Based on the forecast, it is possible that we wouldn’t be able to get the buses turned around in time to facilitate an early dismissal. This is because elementary students cannot be returned home until communication has occurred between the school and parent (unless instructions have been collected from schools ahead of time).
All forecasts indicate that the conditions will worsen as the day goes on. The other variable relates to winter road maintenance and clearing as this has been an ongoing concern especially with this unusual winter.
Winds are expected to pick up adding limited visibility to our concerns. We also recognize that with the instability of this storm system, the severe conditions may not materialize. We are choosing to err on the side of caution. Basically, we are confident we can get to school but have concerns with the return home runs.
School Buses have been cancelled for the day on Thursday, February 20 in all areas (except Pickle Lake).
Areas includes:
KENORA/SIOUX NARROWS
DRYDEN/VERMILION BAY
RED LAKE/EAR FALLS
SIOUX LOOKOUT
IGNACE
UPSALA
ALL Schools remain open.
Judi Green
General Manager
Northwestern Ontario
Student Services Consortium
