Glen Ellyn School Districts Consider Closing Due to Brutal Weather Next Week

The National Weather Service has issued another update that includes two weather alerts for the Chicago area:  

A winter weather advisory is in effect from 3 a.m. Sunday through 6 a.m. Monday. Snow accumulation of 3 to 5 inches is likely across much of the area, with wind gusts up to 40 miles per hour possible.

"Accumulating snow will make roads snow-covered and slippery beginning pre-dawn and continuing through Sunday morning," according to the advisory. "Gusty winds Sunday afternoon and Sunday night will cause significant blowing and drifting of snow which, along with a periods of snow showers Sunday evening, may lead to near blizzard conditions at time Sunday night."

A wind chill warning is in effect from 3 a.m. Monday to 9 a.m. Wednesday. Wind chill values will reach 35 to 45 below zero, and can lead to frostbite and hypothermia.

Glenbard District 87 Superintendent David Larson issued the following statement to parents:

"With the forecast calling for sub-zero temperatures on Monday, we are monitoring weather reports to determine whether Glenbard buildings will be open on Monday, Jan. 27. Our primary concern always is the safety of students and staff. On Sunday afternoon, Jan. 26, Superintendent David Larson will talk with superintendents in our elementary school districts and neighboring high school districts to discuss whether schools would be open on Monday. We also consult with bus companies to see if buses will be able to travel safely to and from school. A decision would be made by 3 p.m. Jan. 26."

From Glen Ellyn Elementary District 41:

"The decision on whether to close school on Monday (Jan. 27) will be made Sunday afternoon … following our normal practice of consultation with other area superintendents, with our bus companies and with area agencies regarding expected travel conditions. If the forecast holds for continued severe weather on Tuesday, the decision on holding school that day will be made on Monday." 

Regardless of whether school is closed, parents always have the option to keep their children home for an excused absence if they believe that is the best decision for their child.

Days lost to weather will be made up at the end of the school year.