FRSD Families:

The specific conditions around this morning's road conditions, is one of the more challenging ones for us to address, and does not happen often.  The forecast predicted that temperatures would not drop below 34 degrees. At 5:30 AM, the weather was 35 degrees.  These conditions are usually not a cause for school delays.  In addition, a local First Student employee drove the roads between 5:00 and 5:30 AM, and reported no problems.  Our first bus leaves the yard by 6:40 AM, and our first student is picked up at a bus stop at 6:50 AM.  As such, we try to make the "call" to delay or close prior to 6:30 AM.  When making this decision after 6:30 AM, it puts parents in a bind, and also creates other dangerous situations such as students being dropped off at school not knowing it is delayed, students standing at bus stops with no buses coming, and young students at home with no supervision as guardians have left for work.  

This morning, right around 6:30 AM, temperatures began to drop and road conditions started to change in some areas.  By 7:00 AM it was clear that road conditions were less than ideal, but our transportation provider had buses out on routes and students on buses.  In addition, they were confident our buses would be slow, but could safely transport students, which is what occured this morning.

After talking to some staff and hearing from some parents, one thing the district will implement going forward when this specific situation exists, is to send out a ParentSquare post letting folks know that while we are operating on time, please be aware that there are driving hazards (whatever they are, ice, snow, wind, flooding, etc...). This will provide parents and staff who may be unaware, have the information that they can pass along and make the best decision for their family, based on where they live.  Even if it is simply to leave the house early to ensure they can be extra cautious on the drive to arrive at work or school on time. That could/would have been helpful for some families this morning.

As a reminder, we have very different terrain and elevation throughout our district.  If you feel your specific location makes it unsafe to make it to school on time, or at all, simply call the school and let them know, and the absence of your student will be excused.  

More information (ex. Snow Routes) in regards to Transportation Services can be found at: https://www.fernridge.k12.or.us/transportation
More information on Closures/Delays can be found at: https://www.fernridge.k12.or.us/closures-delays