Seattle Public Schools to opt for remote learning instead of snow days for remainder of school year

SEATTLE — Preparations are underway for Seattle Public Schools families to switch to remote instruction during inclement weather rather than having snow days.

The school district will send students home with materials needed for remote learning over winter break.

SPS says it made the change after families and staff requested to avoid extending the school year through July. The last day of school for the district is currently set for June 30.

The district worked with the Seattle Education Association to create the remote instruction plan earlier this fall.

“We cannot predict or control the weather, but we can maximize our response to it. Technology provides a way to engage with students even when winter weather makes it unsafe to go to school buildings,” reads a memo sent to families this week.

In the event of inclement weather, families will receive communication from the district notifying them if there will be a two-hour delay or if classes will be held remotely.

The first day of remote instruction due to weather will be delayed two hours to allow students and staff time to get set for virtual learning.

In the event of multiple days of inclement weather, remote instruction would begin at schools’ standard start times on the following days.

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