The following communication was sent to SPS Families at 12:30 PM on 1/6/25.
Dear Shawnee Families:
Happy New Year and welcome back! As we prepare to begin the second semester, we are excited to continue working with your students and look forward to a successful term ahead. With the new semester comes colder weather, and we want to take a moment to share information about how Shawnee Public Schools handles cold weather and our protocols to ensure the safety of all students and staff.
While current forecasts predict only chilly temperatures, it is important to be prepared for any changes. Safety is always our top priority, and we have plans in place should winter weather conditions arise anytime throughout the school year. We would like to outline our process for making weather-related decisions and how you can stay informed.
Decision-Making Process for Winter Weather
Our administrators carefully monitor weather conditions, including road safety and wind chill factors, particularly for students who walk to school or wait at bus stops. When necessary, our transportation and operations teams assess bus routes, sidewalks, and other factors to determine whether conditions are safe for travel. We also communicate closely with the surrounding school districts when making weather-related decisions. While we strive to keep schools open, we will not hesitate to cancel school or school activities if the safety of students and staff is at risk.
Communication Methods
If a decision is made to cancel school or activities, we will notify families promptly using multiple methods:
Email, Phone, and Text Messages: Ensure your contact information is up to date with your student’s school.
Shawnee Public Schools App: Download the app for notifications directly to your device. Links to the app can be found on our website at www.shawnee.k12.ok.us.
Social Media and Website Updates: Follow us on social media and check our website for the latest information.
Local Media Announcements: Updates will be shared with local news outlets.
We understand that school closures can impact your family’s daily routine. Whenever possible, we will notify you in advance to help you plan.
Cold Weather Safety Protocols
When school is in session during colder weather, we follow specific safety measures to keep students safe and warm:
Indoor Recess: Students will have indoor recess when temperatures are at or below 32 degrees Fahrenheit at the time of recess.
Outdoor Athletic Activities: Coaches follow Oklahoma Secondary School Activities Association (OSSAA) guidelines for cold weather safety during practices and events.
Bus Riders: We encourage families to download the My Ride K-12 app, which provides real-time updates on bus locations and estimated arrival times to minimize outdoor wait times. Details about the app can be found on our Transportation page at https://www.shawnee.k12.ok.us/page/transportation.
Updating Contact Information
To ensure you receive timely updates, please verify that your phone number and email address are current with your student’s school office. Keeping your information updated allows us to communicate quickly and efficiently.
Thank you for your partnership in keeping our students safe during the colder months. Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your school site. We appreciate your trust in Shawnee Public Schools and look forward to working together for a safe and successful season.