Inclement Weather & Smoke

The safety of students and staff guides every transportation decision made by Sisters School District. During winter weather, wildfire smoke, or other emergency conditions, the district carefully monitors local conditions and communicates any impacts to school operations or transportation as early as possible.

Have questions? Please contact Transportation for more information or assistance.

Winter Weather & Road Conditions

Snow, ice, freezing rain, dense fog, abnormally cold temperatures, and other hazardous weather can affect school transportation and operations. When conditions warrant, the Superintendent and/or Director of Operations personally inspect local roads before buses begin their routes. Based on these firsthand observations, along with weather forecasts, road reports, and discussions with other districts, decisions are made regarding school delays, closures, or transportation adjustments.

Whenever possible, these decisions are made before 5:00 AM to provide families with as much notice as possible. This allows parents and guardians time to plan ahead and helps high school student drivers make safe travel decisions before leaving home.

Depending on conditions, the district may:

• Modify or cancel activities
• Delay or cancel school

Please note: District buses are equipped with automatic tire chains that can be deployed when additional traction is needed, helping drivers safely navigate snow and icy roads. We recognize that many families and high school student drivers may not have vehicles similarly equipped, and this is an important consideration when weather-related decisions are made.

Wildfire Smoke & Air Quality

Wildfire smoke presents different challenges than winter weather and may affect transportation, outdoor activities, and school operations.

When smoke conditions warrant, the Superintendent and/or Director of Operations visit schools to evaluate local air quality while also reviewing regional air quality data and state guidance. This combination of on site observations and official data helps determine whether it is safe for students and staff to attend school and participate in outdoor activities.

Whenever possible, these decisions are made before 5:00 AM to provide families with as much notice as possible. This allows parents and guardians time to plan ahead and make safe attendance decisions.

Depending on conditions, the district may:

• Modify or cancel activities
• Delay or cancel school

School Delays, Closures & Notifications

Whenever weather, smoke, or other emergency conditions affect school operations or transportation, families will be notified as early as possible through:

• ParentSquare
• Sisters School District website
• Local media outlets

Important: To ensure you receive important notifications, please keep your contact information up to date with your student's school.

Emergency Transportation Updates

Occasionally, bus routes or arrival times may be affected by road conditions, construction, mechanical issues, or other unforeseen circumstances. Families are encouraged to monitor district communications for the latest transportation updates.

Family Decisions & Student Safety

Every decision regarding school operations and transportation is made with the safety and well-being of students and staff as the district's highest priority. However, Sisters School District recognizes that road conditions, air quality, and individual health needs can vary throughout the district.

If school remains open but you do not feel it is safe for your student to travel to or attend school due to weather, road conditions, wildfire smoke, or other local circumstances, please use your best judgment and notify your student's School Office. Families know their students best, and we encourage you to make the decision that is right for your child.