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Emergency School Closings

The decision to cancel in-person classes is not taken lightly. Because many families have children at both the high school as well as one of our feeder districts, the superintendent works closely with the superintendents of Districts 90 and 97 to make a joint decision in the event of a weather-related closing. Two of the key factors to consider are:

  • Safety. The first consideration is whether students can get to school safely. Because our districts do not have bus service, many students walk to school every day. In the case of significant snow accumulations or extreme wind chills, walking a mile or more simply is not safe or healthy for students.
  • Effect on our workforce. Many of our faculty members with school-age children do not live in the local community. School closings in the city and other suburbs mean that these teachers must stay home with their children, which makes finding adequate substitute coverage for classes a significant challenge. 

E-Learning

The district’s E-Learning Plan provides the opportunity to provide continuity of learning while also keeping our students and staff safe. The decision whether to hold an e-learning day or cancel classes entirely will be made on a case by case basis.

Announcement of School Closure

If we close school to protect the health and safety of students and staff members, a message will be sent to families via phone, email, and text (for those who've opted in) using the district’s emergency notification system. Notification also will be posted on the district website.

  • Whenever possible, we will communicate a firm decision about whether school will be open or closed by around 8:00 p.m. the day before. However, this call may notify stakeholders that the forecast or conditions warrant additional monitoring prior to making a final decision. 
  • If the forecast changes or conditions deteriorate after 8 p.m., we will let people know about the status of classes and/or before- and after-school activities no later than 5:30 a.m. the next day.
  • Barring any unusual or unforeseen circumstances (e.g., a significant change in temperature), a decision to cancel school will not be rescinded.

Delayed openings or school closings are publicized at the media outlets below. We will be identified as Oak Park and River Forest High School, Cook County, District 200.

  • Emergency Closing Center
  • WGN Radio 720 AM
  • WBBM Newsradio 780 AM
  • WBBM-TV (Channel 2)
  • WMAQ-TV (Channel 5)
  • WLS-TV (Channel 7)
  • WGN-TV (Channel 9)
  • WFLD TV (Channel 32)