How The Decision Is Made:  There are numerous factors to weigh in making the decision to close schools or to have a delayed opening or early closing. First and foremost, the Superintendent must consider the safety of students and staff. Questions to ask include: Can the buses deliver students to and from home? Can students safely wait outside for school buses? Have crews cleaned the roads sufficiently so staff can drive to school or back home?   

School administrators work hard to determine if it is safe for students to be transported to and from schools. The decision rests with the Superintendent of schools after consultation with key district personnel. In the very early hours of the morning, the Superintendent contacts local police, the township’s Department of Public Safety and the district’s Transportation Manager and Director of Support Operations, who study weather forecasts and review conditions on district property. The Transportation Manager communicates with bus contractors and key department employees. While they discuss the road situation, the Superintendent reviews conditions across the region. S/he discusses the local conditions with appropriate district personnel and, when necessary, confers with area Superintendents. In addition, road conditions beyond East Brunswick must be evaluated as employees might have delays in getting to work.

School Closing:  The final decision must be made no later than 5:30 am to close schools. When the Superintendent makes a decision, the information is then disseminated to district administrators. A message will be sent to each student’s home telephone number via Global Connect. Announcements will also be made on radio stations WCTC 1450 AM and New Jersey 101.5 FM and cable stations EBTV Channel 3 and News 12 New Jersey. Announcements will also be posted on the district’s web site: www.ebnet.org and on the district telephone system (732-613-6700). 

Delayed Opening:  If road conditions permit, a delayed opening can be utilized. Information will be delivered through the same channels: Global Connect, the district web site www.ebnet.org, cable stations EBTV Channel 3 and News 12 New Jersey, the district main telephone number (732-613-6700), and local radio stations. 

Emergency Early Dismissal:  When it is necessary to close schools before the regular dismissal time, a Global Connect message will be sent to the home telephone number and the numbers identified on the emergency contact form. Announcements will also be made on the radio and cable television stations, and posted immediately on the district’s web site.

Whenever possible, early dismissal will be announced before afternoon kindergarten students leave for school. Attempts will be made to call the parents of elementary school students or their alternates listed on the emergency contact forms. At the secondary level, students will be able to call their parents/emergency contact. Parents are asked to discuss emergency procedures with their children. It is the parent’s responsibility to inform the school of any change in emergency contact information.

An early closing also cancels adult education programs and community programs that use the school buildings.

While any emergency closings or delays create disruption into the routine of school days, the Superintendent must think primarily of the safety of transporting students to schools. The decision is not made lightly and not without thinking of the impact on students, employees, and parents. In addition, it is important to remember that weather problems can cause bus delays and parents should have their emergency plans for child care in effect.

Thank you in advance for your patience and understanding. Each decision regarding school closings or delays must be made on a case-by-case basis. The number one priority is safety.

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