RRM – Extreme Cold Weather Information
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Temperature forecasts – e.g -18 deg feels like -27. The actual air temp is -18, “feels like -27” refers to the wind chill – this is the biggest factor in determining whether we go out for recess or not. If there is little to no wind, we will usually try to go out.
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We are able to shorten recesses
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Teachers can take their class out for DPA for short periods
Recess/Lunch during conditions of extreme cold
At the request of principals, a specific wind chill standard has not been adopted by the Upper Grand District School Board to determine if students should be kept indoors at these times. Principals are required to be sensitive to the safety and well-being of students during periods of severe weather. The decision to keep students in during recess, lunch or nutrition break or to shorten their time outdoors is made by the principal or designate of each school using sound judgment and in consideration of the following:
- Recess provides a necessary break for students. Physical activity and socialization refresh students and help them to be more successful in the learning activities that follow a recess break. Principals will allow outdoor recess whenever possible.
- The safety and well-being of students must be ensured, and during severe weather conditions student safety is the primary concern of principals. Principals will make the decision to keep students inside or shorten an outside break when the conditions warrant such action.
- The specifics of the local situation are considered. Some schools have protected areas where weather conditions are mitigated. Others are very exposed.
- Principals may discuss their plans with neighbouring schools as part of the decision-making process and consider input from other staff members.
Risk of frostbite in extreme cold weather
Parents and guardians should be aware that frigid temperatures present a risk of frostbite within minutes of skin being exposed. Environment Canada warns that when the temperature is between -28 to -39°C, exposed skin can freeze in just 10 to 30 minutes.
Frostbite is a severe condition where the skin and underlying tissue are frozen due to exposure to the cold. Skin appears white and waxy and is hard to the touch. Skin may also feel numb. Environment Canada warns that frostbite can be quite serious and advises that if frostbite occurs, seek medical help, do not rub or massage the area and do not apply direct heat to the skin. Rather, gradually warm the area using body heat or warm water.
Parents and guardians should ensure their children are dressed properly for frigid temperatures.
Bus cancellations and school closures due to extreme cold weather
Each morning, the general manager of STWDSTS will assess the temperature in all four divisions of Upper Grand District School Board using Environment Canada’s Wind Chill Index by 5:15am. If the temperature is forecasted to reach -35°C or colder with wind chill at 7am, STWDSTS will inform the school boards’ Directors of Education or designate.
STWDSTS will make the decision to cancel buses by 5:30am and, if buses are cancelled, will post the announcement to the STWDSTS website by 6:30am. Buses may or may not be cancelled, and the decision is made by STWDSTS based on a number of factors.
When the 7am forecasted temperature is -35°C or colder with wind chill, schools may or may not be closed. The decision to close schools is a joint decision of the Directors of Education of the Upper Grand and Wellington Catholic District School Boards with Board Chairs.
If the decision is made to close schools, an alert will be posted on the board and school websites, and local media will be alerted.
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