Lynden Families and Staff,
All Lynden Schools will remain closed tomorrow, Feb. 4. Our facilities, grounds, and custodial staff worked hard throughout the day to make sure we were in the best position to return, but the roads just aren’t safe enough. We are also appreciative of the City of Lynden crews and Stremler Gravel big rigs. Our lots are clear but ice, blowing snow, and extreme cold just didn’t cooperate.
A lot goes into these decisions and thought it might be helpful to open the window into the thinking that goes into it.
• 1st: We understand the importance of education and the disruptions emergency closures can cause. We always start the process with trying to figure out how to open on time.
• 2nd: If unable to open on time, we consider delaying the start by an hour and operate on a regular Wednesday Late Start schedule. Sometimes the daylight and extra hour to clear sidewalks and get to school safely is all that is needed.
• 3rd: Similar to a one-hour delay, we consider a two-hour late start. This just gives the custodial crews, bus drivers, staff, and families the extra time needed to get to school safely.
• 4th: If none of the first three options are safe enough, a decision is made to close. We attempt to communicate this decision the night before to help families plan for the closure.
Your patience and understanding as we navigate these severe weather conditions is appreciated. Stay safe. Stay warm.
— David VanderYacht, Lynden Schools superintendent