Bertschi School Snow Day Policy

In the event of inclement weather or any other emergency, the latest emergency information can be found on the FLASH ALERT website. The FLASH ALERT system distributes emergency messages, such as breaking news or weather closure information, as well as news releases to local stations. Families may want to use the Messenger tool that allows the public to subscribe to the messages posted on the Newswire, receiving the information as emails and “push notifications” through a free phone app. There is no cost to the public to view the information or subscribe to messages. Bertschi will also use the school’s website and Facebook page to distribute emergency information. In case of a snow closure, Bertschi will take into account the decisions made by Seattle Public Schools. However, our students come from a wide range of geographic locations, so the best resource for snow closure information is FLASH ALERT.

Even if the snow is not significant enough to warrant the closure, we still encourage parents to use their best judgment for the safety of their families in deciding whether or not to bring their children to school.


Snow Emergency During School Hours

Sometimes it begins to snow hard enough to warrant closure of the school after the school day has begun. If it is snowing hard or accumulating rapidly, parents should come and pick up their children as soon as possible. Parents should check the FLASH ALERT website and our school’s website for up-to-date information regarding mid-day school closures. In the event children are stranded at school due to snow, the following guidelines will apply:

  • No child will be sent home with anyone not listed on that child’s Student Pick-Up list without permission from a parent/guardian.
  • Any child whose ride does not arrive by 6:00 p.m. will be cared for at the school for as long as necessary. A minimum of two adults will stay at the school as long as children are present.