By John Raffel
Correspondent
Last week’s winter storms, which included nearly a foot of snow on the area over the weekend, interrupted school schedules.
Classes and extra-curricular activities were canceled throughout the week because of the weather.
“So far this year, McBain Schools has had two snow days,” superintendent Scott Akom said. “We could attend school this past Friday, Jan. 12, for a half day. This allowed us to get students to school and home safely before the predicted storm. I don’t know how this compares to last year at this time. Last year, we were fortunate not to have to make up any snow days. I believe we had less than six snow days last year.
“Snow days are determined by the conditions of the roads and late predictions of storms and severe weather conditions. McBain’s transportation director drives our roads and determines if he thinks it is safe for buses to travel. We also consider other drivers, such as students, parents, etc. We also talk with other transportation directors and superintendents surrounding our school district. They are aware of the conditions in their counties and districts. We then do our best to determine whether it is safe to have schools. This process can be quite lengthy and stressful.”
Marion superintendent Danyel Prielipp, in a letter to Marion families on Jan. 11 noted the school would be closed on Jan. 12
“We must take a number of factors into consideration,” Prielipp wrote, “(including) forecasts from the National Weather Service, advice from the Osceola County Sheriff’s department and Osceola County Emergency Management.
The Marion High School New Year, New You Middle School Dance scheduled for Friday, Jan. 12, is rescheduled for Friday, Jan. 26 from 8-10 p.m. in the high school cafeteria.