• When the weather is in question, we consult with our facilities director, our transportation director, and many others. When conditions warrant, our administrators are out driving the roads. Our district is extensive geographically, covering 429 square miles. Weather and road conditions may be fine in one portion of the district, but not in another. In such instances, we must close school for the entire district.

    How Does Suffolk Public Schools Announce Division Closings & Delays?

    When Suffolk Public Schools decides to close or delay schools due to inclement weather conditions, we will provide detailed information on the following platforms:

    SPS Website: www.spsk12.net; A pop-up alert will appear on the SPS Division website with information regarding closings or delays.

    School Messenger: Students and staff will receive an automated phone message and email with information regarding closings or delays. Contact information is based on what we have on file in e-School.

    SPS Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/SuffolkVAPublicSchools

    SPS Twitter: @sufVASchools

    SPS Instagram: @sufvaschools

     

    How Do We Make Our Decisions?

    When bad weather affects the area, we make the decision to open or close schools based on information about road and weather conditions from a variety of sources - our maintenance and transportation staff, city road crews, local law enforcement, and local weather channels.

    A number of factors are considered:

    • Amount of accumulated snow and ice
    • Whether precipitation is expected to continue throughout the day
    • Temperature and wind chill
    • Impact on our transportation fleet

      Weather predictions and the timing of storms
    • Status of condition of city streets
    • School parking lot conditions
    • Building conditions (such as whether there is electricity, heat, and water)

    Local Television Stations/Media Outlets: WVEC-13, WAVY-10, WTKR-3, Suffolk News-Herald. Information will also appear on their websites and social media pages.

    *Please remember that any closings, delays, or early dismissals can impact childcare needs.  Please be sure to make alternate childcare plans in advance. 

    For any questions, please contact the Office of Communications & Community Engagement at communityengagement@spsk12.net.