As the weather takes a negative turn with blustery winds and below freezing temperatures, District 95 must consider the question of whether school should be cancelled or delayed and what each option would bring for students, faculty, and the school district.

Delayed starts are used in situations where there is hope of the weather clearing up and school is pushed back by two hours, whereas cold days are used when the weather doesn’t seem like it will get any better.

The cold becomes extremely unsafe for students and faculty to be out in. As well, the large amounts of snow put students and staff at a much higher risk for car accidents.

“It’s not safe for some to get to school and some things like cars don’t work as well which can result in a lack of safety,” Peter Niemiec, senior, said.

According to Kent Nightlinger, principal, no specific guidelines are used to determine when the regular school schedule should be altered. Weather forecasts are usually a big part of the decision, as well as looking at the current weather situation.

“We really have no power over cancelling school. The superintendent [of District 95] makes the decision, but sometimes [he’ll] consult with [our staff],” Nightlinger said.

As a result of cold days, school days will be added onto the end of the year as makeup time. Delayed starts don’t have an effect on the end of the year.

“It can throw teachers off sometimes with their schedules,” Nightlinger said “but it’s usually not a big deal [to readjust].”