Dear Windber Area School District Families,
I am writing to provide an update regarding our school schedule for the remainder of this week due to ongoing inclement weather conditions. This week has been incredibly difficult. As you know, we were required to cancel school on Monday and Tuesday, followed by weather-related adjustments that have required continued monitoring of conditions. Our priority throughout this process has been maintaining student and staff safety while doing everything possible to preserve in-person instructional time.
Due to continued concerns related to weather and temperatures, the district will operate on a two-hour delay on both Wednesday, January 28, and Thursday, January 29.
Looking ahead to Friday, January 30, that day was originally scheduled as an early dismissal for students, with teachers remaining for the full day to review student data, conduct department meetings, and complete other essential professional responsibilities that are often difficult to schedule. After thoughtful consideration, I have decided to change those plans. Instead of an early dismissal, the district will operate on a two-hour delay on Friday, January 30.
Under this revised schedule for Friday:
- Students will arrive two hours later than normal (like we usually do on a 2-hour early dismissal)
- Staff will report at their regular time, allowing teachers and support staff to conduct their data team meetings and collaborative work in the morning rather than the afternoon
In making these decisions, I am doing everything possible to manage challenging weather conditions without extending the school year, if at all possible. I also want to be transparent that I find limited instructional value in virtual learning days. Students learn best when they are in front of their teachers, engaged in meaningful, in-person instruction.
Please know that we are working diligently to balance instructional needs, operational realities, and—most importantly—the safety and well-being of our students and staff. These decisions are not made lightly, and I sincerely appreciate your patience, flexibility, and continued partnership. Please continue to monitor the District’s social media channels and local news outlets for updates, as plans may change due to weather conditions or other unforeseen circumstances.
Thank you for your support. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact your child(ren)'s school office.
Sincerely,
Dr. Michael J. Vuckovich
Superintendent of Schools