What a Difference a Week Makes!

WOW! So much has happened since I last posted. Much of the information you need is on the District website. Just today I have finished a letter that area superintendents and I will send to the state department of education requesting emergency waivers for the days we missed. That response could take a while.

You would be so proud of our staff's response to this "series of unfortunate events". Their flexibility and positive attitude have been inspiring.

This morning the bus on Route 47 had a very minor incident on the road that did not require any law enforcement/emergency response. Students have all been safely delivered and school is in session!

Have a great weekend. Thanks for checking in.

Greg

Are We Out of Snow Days?

With this week's wild weather, it is fair to ask whether we are "out of" snow days. For years the district has built a calendar that allows for three snow days. It is true that, as of Tuesday the 19th, we had taken those three days. However, we may use whatever we believe is wise to ensure student and staff safety. There is also the possibility that schools may petition the state department of education for attendance waivers in certain emergency or hardship circumstances. BRUSD intends to make such a request in light of our week of snow.

Determining When to Delay or Cancel School

You've maybe wondered how the decision is made to delay or cancel school due to weather conditions. While the decision rests with me, I only make it after consulting with several people (our own transportation and maintenance directors, bus drivers, other area superintendents), following current and forecasted weather conditions, and driving the main and side streets. I'll be the first to admit that it isn't a science, and that some have a greater or lesser degree of experience and comfort driving snow-packed roads (I grew up in Wisconsin where there's REAL winter!!). However, safety for all is our only concern. I hope you have a chance to enjoy the snow today and the rest of this week. Hang on...it looks as though we are in for a lot of it!

Intermediate School Publishes "Golden News"

I just finished reading the Intermediate School's premier edition of the "Golden News", created by BR Intermediate School students. Outstanding! I was very interested to learn some unusual facts about Principal Ball--his favorite color is green and his favorite animal is a naked mole rat! I look forward to future editions of the "Golden News"!

This past Saturday, January 9, a group of 12 BR staff and community members met to begin work on a district strategic plan. We created a district vision statement and revised our mission statement during a very productive 8-hour session. Thanks to Red Devil Pizza for an excellent lunch! Our next meeting is scheduled for Saturday, February 27. Check back for more details.