Closures and Delays - Innovation Lab High School

The entrance to Moorlands Elementary completely block by snow

If no schedule changes are posted, schools and buses are operating on normal schedules.

Emergencies such as inclement weather, power outages and hazardous road conditions can alter school schedules and affect bus transportation. The decision to close or delay schools is made by the superintendent as early as possible, usually around 5:30 a.m. Early dismissals will occur only if a delay in dismissal significantly increases hazards.

Closure & Delay Messages

If the District does not make an announcement, it means schools are open and buses operating as normally as possible. If there is a change to the schedule, one of the following messages will be announced:

Closed

All district schools closed
No after-school/evening activities, athletics or band/orchestra

On Time, Snow Bus Routes

Buses start at normal time on snow routes.
School starts at regular time.

2 Hours Late, Normal Bus Routes

Buses start 2 hours late on normal routes.
School starts 2 hours late with regular dismissal time
All partial programs cancelled
No ATP Networks, Sorenson Early Childhood Center, Head Start, Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program, preschool/pre-k programs, Dartmoor, Dolan Academy, Brocks
No in-district CTE satellite shuttles
No out-of-district transportation
No zero period classes
No before school activities

2 Hours Late, Snow Bus Routes

Buses start 2 hours late on snow routes.
School starts 2 hours late with regular dismissal time
All partial programs cancelled
No ATP Networks, Sorenson Early Childhood Center, Head Start, Early Childhood Education and Assistance Program, preschool/pre-k programs, Dartmoor, Dolan Academy, Brocks
No in-district CTE satellite shuttles
No out-of-district transportation
No zero period classes
No before school activities

How to Get Notified

Automated Message

In the event of a closure or delay, the District will contact families and staff using an automated messaging system in one or more of the following options:

Phone Call
Text Message
Email

These notifications will only work if your contact information is accurate in our student records system. We recommend that you contact your school's office every year to ensure we have your current contact information.

Social Media

Other Options

The District website will display a pop-up message.
Call the Northshore School District information line at (425) 408-6001.
Call your school's main phone number and select option '9' in the menu.
Local radio and television stations provide updates on a continuing basis beginning around 5 a.m. Since conditions vary from one district to another, it is very important to listen for mention of Northshore School District #417.
FlashAlert.net is a self subscription to the Puget Sound Emergency Message System.

Decision Process

Northshore staff follows a process with the utmost concern for the safety of our students and staff:

NOAA weather forecasts are monitored the day before a storm is predicted and during the early morning hours.
The Winter Watch Committee is notified of the possibility of weather issues and prepares for road evaluations.
Dispatcher is notified around 3 a.m. by district staff who work the graveyard shift if weather affects road conditions.
Dispatcher notifies Winter Watch Committee members around 3 a.m. to begin road evaluations and report by 4:15 a.m.
Winter Watch Committee members drive around five sectors of the district checking on road and traffic conditions (downed tree limbs, electrical lines, or road hazards), walking conditions, driveway and parking lot conditions and whether buildings are functional (electricity, heat, etc.) and report by 4:15 a.m. The five sectors are:
- Arrowhead - Inglemoor - Norway Hill - Westhill
- Kenmore - Frank Love - Shelton View
- Fernwood - Turner's Corner - Kokanee - Woodin
- Leota - Hollywood Hill - English Hill
- Timbercrest - Dump Road - Mink Road
Committee members rate 8-12 key areas of their routes on a four-point scale:
- 1 - normal
- 2 - minimal hazards present
- 3 - moderate (difficult to negotiate)
- 4 - severe (very hazardous)
Around 4:15 a.m. a recommendation about school operations is made based on the weather forecast, current weather conditions, input from neighboring districts and driving conditions.
Around 4:15 a.m. the Director of Support Services is notified of the conditions, consults with the Superintendent and key senior leaders. The Superintendent makes a final decision.

Other considerations:

The ability of staff to get to school safely and on time.
Providing a consistent message for working parents who leave home before their children leave for school.
The weather forecast for later in the day.

Traffic and Weather Resources

The following links may be useful to you in determining the status of traffic and roads.