Maine School Administrative District #6 No School Announcement Procedures

When MSAD #6 closes the schools due to bad weather, the following television and radio stations broadcast that notice and usually announce the closing by "MSAD 6" rather than by the District's name.

The decision to close the schools is made by 5:45 a.m. That decision requires us to notify over 600 employees and 9 radio stations. It is based upon reports from 2 weather stations and 2 emergency dispatch centers in the area along with any other information available. Weather and road conditions vary widely from Cornish to Gorham, from North Windham to Dayton, and from Sebago to Scarborough. In many of our households, the parents leave home by 7:00 a.m. for work outside the District, and thus, must arrange for their children's care prior to that time. The decision to close schools is usually difficult, especially when you consider the geographic size of our District and the fact that we have the largest bus fleet in the state (over 50 vehicles).

Parents are advised that occasionally the District may consider a one-hour delay as an option. On these occasions, the buses will arrive approximately one hour later than normal. Parents are also advised to listen to the radio during days when school is in session and the weather appears to be deteriorating rapidly. It is necessary on occasion to cancel afternoon kindergarten, or, in extreme cases, close all schools early.

We put a great deal of time and effort into making our decision and many people are involved. Occasionally we make the "wrong call," but we are trying our best.

The decision to send youngsters to school ultimately rests with the parent. If school is held and, in your opinion, you feel it would be unsafe for your child to ride the bus, please have your child stay home or, if you wish, transport the child to school yourself.

We attempt to make the right decision 100% of the time, but the Maine weather sometimes changes rapidly and, like the weatherman, we may miss one.

Thank you for your understanding in this matter.