Emergency School Closing Procedures

Weather-Related Emergency Procedures

During the school year, there may be times when Lincoln or all buildings are closed. In most cases, school closures are the result of weather-related conditions. Whenever a decision is made to close school or alter the school day, it is based on the general safety conditions for all students and staff. The District recognizes that conditions may vary for each family.

Parents and students should assume that classes are in session at the standard time unless otherwise notified.

Guidelines for School Closures

Priority on Safety

During periods of inclement weather or in emergency situations, our priority is the safety and welfare of our students and staff. At the same time, we recognize that the closing of schools can be burdensome to families due to childcare and work schedules. We consider canceling school to be an exception, and we emphasize keeping our school open. Daily school attendance is a crucial component for student success.  Some of the primary factors that are taken into account when making a decision include:

  • The safety and well-being of students and staff

  • Severity of the weather (extreme cold, flooding, etc.)

  • Timing of the weather

  • The ability of buses and cars to travel safely

  • The operable condition of our building

Making the Decision

The Superintendent of Schools determines when and if conditions at one or more schools warrant canceling or closing school buildings. This decision is typically made in collaboration with the District administration, other area superintendents, local village departments, the bus service provider, and the Illinois Department of Transportation.

Notification to Our Parents/Guardians

In the event of a school closing or other emergency, parents can expect to receive an automated phone call, e-mail, and a text. We ask that all parents help to make sure that their contact information is accurate and complete. Please notify your school secretary if there are changes to your email address or phone numbers.

School closure decisions will typically be made before 6:00 a.m. the day of closure. This allows weather conditions to be monitored overnight to avoid unnecessary closures. Closure decisions will only be made the night before if conditions are known with a high degree of certainty and warrant closure. Parents should establish contingency plans for possible closures throughout the school year regardless of the season.

Emergency and closing information is also available through the following sources:

Resource Links