Superintendent

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January 20, 2025

GLPS Families, 

As I try to do whenever there is a snow day decision to make, I wanted to send a quick communication about tomorrow’s closure. With windchill forecasts holding steady at 17-20 degrees below zero tomorrow, and with little warm up during the day, we have significant concerns about kids walking to and from school, waiting for buses in the morning, and getting off of buses in the afternoon. The cold weather can impact the buses’ ability to operate effectively, which could create delays and breakdowns, further adding to the potentially dangerous situation. In addition, when temperatures get this cold, there is also the potential for heating failures within the buildings themselves, especially those that have not been improved through bond construction yet, or are in the process of being improved. As for Adventure Club and Little Comets, we are concerned about kids and families at drop off and pick up, and the potential for heating issues remains present in those buildings as well. In short, when the forecast approaches 20 below zero, the margin of error becomes pretty thin, and we do not want to put students or families in dangerous situations.

We are aware that the forecasted cold temperatures continue through Wednesday, and we will monitor the forecast throughout the day tomorrow and communicate with you once we have a better idea of where temperatures will land.

Thank you, as always, for your understanding and support. Stay warm and stay safe! As always, I am #proudtobecomet! 

Dr. Bill Barnes
Superintendent of Schools