(Submitted by BG Superintendent Francis Scruci)
Allow me to explain the process that our district follows when making decisions on delays and closings. At approximately 4:15 a.m. each morning we get out of bed and get in our vehicles to drive the district. Our first bus departs from the bus garage at approximately 5:50 a.m. We do everything in our power to make the decision by 5:30 at the latest. I pull over and send info out on Twitter(@francis_scruci) and Facebook. When I get back home then I make the all call while submitting the delay or closing information with the TV stations. I suggest if you want the earliest notification then follow me on Twitter or Facebook.
A reminder that our district is the 98th largest district in the State in terms of square miles (118). My transportation director and I drive the district and divide the area in terms of northern and southern. He and I are in constant communication throughout the early morning drive to determine the safety of putting buses on the road.
Because of the size of the district, there could be a different weather condition in one area and in another area it could be totally opposite. For instance, this morning in the southern part of the district it was clear with just small patches of fog, while in the northern part of the district there was dense fog. Fog is difficult to predict as it can appear instantly within minutes.
This is one of the most difficult decisions that a superintendent makes each day as safety is the priority for our buses, drivers, students, student drivers, and staff. We try to give as much notice to prevent any inconvenience to families but there are times where that becomes impossible and we apologize for the stress it may cause. We appreciate your support and understanding on these types of days and I can assure you that we take the decision extremely serious as educating our students is a high priority coupled with their safety.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me at your convenience.
