[EVSD News] School Closure-January 6, 2009

[Jodi Brown]

January 5, 2009
 
Dear East Valley School District Families: 
 
This morning I met with my administrative team to assess the conditions of our schools.   We have been working on the reopening of school since Thursday afternoon and have reviewed all bus routes. We have brought in extra help to remove snow from roofs and have changed work shifts to maximize our ability to clear walkways, parking lots and emergency access points.   
 
In spite of these efforts we are not comfortable with reopening schools. While we have made great progress in the removal of snow loads we are concerned that the anticipated change in weather---snow changing to rain---will increase the weight loads on buildings that we have not been able to completely clear of snow.   
 
While all of our buildings remain safe, because of the age and conditions of our roofs, we believe that the prudent action to take is to cancel school for Tuesday, January 6, 2009. We will use this day to complete the removal of snow from roofs and to remove ice and snow from walkways. 
 
We are calling for volunteers to help clear snow and ice from school walkways. Many East Valley staff members have already volunteered their services and will be actively working to remove snow and ice on Tuesday morning during the period from 10:00 am until 2:00 pm. If you would like to help, please report to a school near you (please bring a snow shovel) during this time. The building principal will be on site to coordinate efforts.   
 
We also need your help with getting your students to school. We are planning to resume classes on Wednesday January 7, 2009. On this day busses and instruction will run on a two hour delay; however school will be open on time to accommodate families who must drop students off. We are asking all parents of students who walk to school or to a bus stop to review the walking route for safety. If you feel it is unsafe for your student to walk the route the absence from school will be excused. 
 
John Glenewinkel
Superintendent
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