The D300 Rapid Communication System (RCS)
In emergency closings or weather events, the D300 RCS provides an automated voicemail recording to D300 parents and staff members. The system can be used for a district-wide situation, or at individual schools if necessary. The system will automatically attempt to call every D300 family and employee of the affected schools, meaning that you do not need to “sign up” to receive these emergency calls. You do, however, need to keep your telephone contact information up-to-date. Parents do this by providing their contact information to the school office for input to the Infinite Campus student information system. Staff members do this by visiting Lawson Self-Serve or calling the D300 Human Resources Office. |
School Closings
Schools will be in session according to the District calendar unless there is an emergency or severe weather condition. In the case of a school closing due to weather or other emergency, the D300 will attempt to provide this information through as many of these channels as possible AROUND OR AFTER 6 A.M.:
Winters in Northern Illinois are usually very cold, windy and snowy. School will not necessarily be closed on cold, snowy days. Decisions to close school for weather are made on a case-by-case basis. The decision to close is not based only on temperature or wind chill. Other major factors include:
The Superintendent usually makes the decision on whether to close school between 4 and 5 a.m. The decision is made after he closely consults weather forecasts, superintendents of nearby school districts, and the D300 Supervisor of Facilities for an up-to-the-minute assessment of road conditions.
|
Athletics, after-school practices, and extra-curricular events
As noted in the 2009-2010 District 300 Parent/Guardian Handbook: “If all District schools are closed due to a weather or other emergency, all extracurricular activities will be CANCELLED. High School interscholastic sport activities and practices will be CANCELLED. EXCEPTIONS TO THIS RULE SHALL BE MADE BY 12:00 NOON BY THE SUPERINTENDENT/DESIGNEE.” |
Early Dismissal
The possibility exists that due to severe weather conditions or an unforeseen circumstance school closes or dismisses early. If the possibility exists that a parent or older sibling will not be home, we encourage parents to designate an alternate destination for their children if school dismisses early. |
Transportation Schedules
Transportation schedules may vary when adverse weather conditions prevail. Parents/Guardians are asked to inform their children where they should go when weather conditions demand early dismissal. Parents/Guardians should complete the school's emergency dismissal instructions form so the school is aware of parent instructions for their child. To reach the transportation department, call 847.658.3262. |