Winter Weather Procedures
At Wasatch County School District, our goal is to keep schools open and instruction in person whenever possible. Snowstorms are part of life in our valley, but delayed starts, online instruction, and snow days are rare.
Unless you receive an official notification from the District, please assume schools are open and operating on the regular schedule.
Parent Choice & Student Safety
We recognize that snowfall amounts can vary greatly across our valley. Even when roads are plowed and most areas are passable, some neighborhoods may remain difficult to travel.
- You know your child’s safety best. If you feel conditions make it unsafe to send or bring your child to school, please keep them home.
- If the majority of our 8,000+ students can make it to school safely, school will be held.
How We Decide on Delays or Closures
Before and during a storm, District officials receive regular updates on:
- Road conditions
- Bus transportation capability
- Status of buildings
If reports show we can safely transport students and operate schools, we will remain open.
If weather conditions impact the entire county, we may shift to online instruction rather than a snow day.
Late Start Procedures
While not common, a late start may be used when extra time is needed for road crews to clear routes.
- A late start will delay the start of all schools in the District.
- Notifications will be sent to parents and staff as early as possible through SchoolMessenger, social media, and local news outlets.
- Please note: because our buses normally run two sets of routes (secondary first, then elementary), late starts often place buses in heavier traffic, which may create further delays. We appreciate your patience.
Why We Strive to Stay Open
Schools are more than classrooms, they are vital to our community.
- Many students rely on schools for meals, warmth, and supervision.
- Some families cannot adjust work schedules on short notice.
- A functioning school provides consistency and safety for thousands of children.
- Schools are places of belonging, learning, and connection—opening them whenever safely possible supports students’ emotional well-being and sense of stability.
Key Reminders
- No notification = school is open on the regular schedule.
- If notified of a late start, please plan for adjusted bus and bell schedules.
- If notified of an online instruction day, schools will provide guidance for accessing learning from home.
- Your judgment matters, so please make the best choice for your child’s safety.
Thank you for your partnership in helping us keep students safe, warm, and learning throughout the winter season.