Inclement Weather and School Closures
During the winter months, the West Ada School District carefully plans for adverse weather that could necessitate school closures, always prioritizing student safety for those commuting by bus, walking, or biking. If hazardous weather conditions arise and make travel to school unsafe, the district may choose to cancel classes to ensure everyone’s well-being.
Our early morning team, beginning as early as 3:00 A.M., diligently monitors temperatures and road conditions throughout the district. This “snow patrol” covers the large area from Avimor to Eagle, Star, Kuna, Meridian, and Boise, assessing whether roads have been plowed and de-iced. Collaborating closely with Durham School Services, local law enforcement, and weather experts, our team evaluates bus driver availability and overall safety, with the goal of making a decision by 5:30 A.M. to provide families with ample time for childcare arrangements or work notifications.
In rare cases when the temperature drops below -20°F, a "snow day" may be considered, although this is uncommon. We recognize that conditions may vary widely across the district, and while some areas may be hazardous, others may remain accessible. Parents who deem the conditions unsafe for their children are encouraged to keep them home and notify the school. If a school closure is determined, it applies district-wide.
In the event of a school closure, notifications will be shared promptly through our district website, social media channels, and local media outlets by 5:30 A.M. To stay informed, please ensure that your contact information is updated in PowerSchool.
West Ada Snow Gauge: Track Winter Weather in Real-Time!
Welcome to the West Ada Snow Gauge! Our district service in Meridian now features this fun, interactive tool to help students and families monitor winter conditions throughout the season. Located at the District Service Center, the snow gauge provides up-to-date information on snowfall and weather patterns in our area.
Please note: The snow gauge is for fun and educational purposes only and is not an indicator for snow day decisions. However, it’s a great way to stay engaged with the fascinating changes in Idaho's winter weather!
Want to see the snow gauge in action?
Check it out on YouTube here!
Stay tuned for updates and watch as the snow piles up this winter. Let’s make this season a memorable one—snowflakes and all!
How We Communicate Closures
Our district website: https://www.westada.org/
Facebook: West Ada School District - https://www.facebook.com/Joint...
Instagram: @westadaschools - https://www.instagram.com/west...
Twitter: @westadaschools
Local Media Outlets: Television channels and AM/FM radio stations as listed.
Television: Channel 2, KBCI; Channel 6, KIVI; Channel 7, KTVB
AM Radio Stations: KBOI, 670; KIDO, 630; KGEM, 1140
FM Radio Stations: KJOT, 105; K-106, 106; K-LITE, 104; KHEZ, 103.3; KIZN, 93.1; KBSU, 90.3
Weather Bus Stop Tips
Wear bright colors.
Avoid dangling items on clothing or backpacks that may catch on doors.
Dress in layers, and cover mouths to protect lungs in extreme cold.
Wear shoes with good traction, and use the restroom before boarding.
Plan for any medical needs.
Winter Weather Recess and School Arrival/Dismissal
For temperatures below 20°F, students remain indoors for recess. School opening times adhere to the student handbook schedules:
Elementary: 8:45 A.M. - 4:15 P.M.
Middle School: 8:00 A.M. - 3:30 P.M.
High School: 7:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M.
Idaho Code and Emergency Closures
Idaho Code 33-512 grants the District Board of Trustees the authority to reduce the required annual instructional hours by up to a total of eleven (11) hours for emergency school closures due to adverse weather conditions and facility failures. If the closures exceed the allocated eleven (11) hours or in cases of multiple days of emergency closures, the Board of Trustees empowers the Superintendent to transition a school(s) to remote instruction.
In situations where emergency closures surpass the hours that can be compensated through remote instruction, the Board of Trustees may adjust the school year calendar to fulfill Idaho Code 33-512 requirements for instructional hours.
Idaho law provides the flexibility for emergency closures without incurring financial penalties. This legal provision recognizes the need for school districts to prioritize the safety and well-being of students and staff during unforeseen circumstances such as adverse weather conditions or other emergencies. The ability to make decisions without financial repercussions allows districts to focus on ensuring a secure environment without compromising fiscal responsibilities. This provision empowers school authorities to take necessary actions in the best interest of the community without the burden of financial constraints during emergency situations.
West Ada School District Board Policy:
Mass Communication Registration
To receive our notifications, please ensure your contact details in PowerSchool are current:
Update PowerSchool with correct family information, cell phone numbers, and emails.
Only primary contacts (Contacts 1 and 2) receive district-wide notifications.
To opt into text messages, text "START" to 98900 if you are not receiving updates. Additionally, check with your carrier if messages are being marked as spam.
Snow Removal Maps for West Ada School Sites
As winter approaches, West Ada School District is committed to ensuring safe access to all our schools and facilities. Snow removal plans have been developed for each site to prioritize the safety of students, staff, and visitors. These plans outline designated pathways, parking areas, and bus zones that will be cleared during inclement weather. Snow removal maps for our school sites are AVAILABLE HERE.
Ada County Highway District Useful Information
Thank you for your understanding and support as we work to keep our students and staff safe during winter conditions.
