From the Executive Director:
Dear MLWGS community,
As we move into the time of year when weather can disrupt the school day, I want to share how we make decisions regarding delays and closures at Maggie L. Walker Governor’s School. Our school serves a large geographic region, and weather often affects one part of that region very differently from another. It is also important to remember that each of our fourteen participating divisions provides its own transportation, and they only transport students when they are operating on their own schedule. When a division closes, they do not run buses to MLWGS.
When a weather event is possible, we begin monitoring forecasts early. I stay in close communication with superintendents and regional directors so that we have a clear sense of their plans and what conditions look like across the area. In general, we look to our four largest divisions Richmond, Chesterfield, Henrico, and Hanover. Together, these divisions account for most of our students. If three of the four delay or close, we follow their lead. If there is a split among them, we typically follow Richmond because our building is located within the city.
We aim to make decisions before 9:00 PM. There are times when the timing of the storm requires us to wait until morning for accurate information. Once a decision is made, we send an email to families, update our website, and notify the local television stations.
If MLWGS is open but your home division is closed, you should stay home. Your absence will be excused, and you will be able to make up any missed work. If you choose to come to school on your own, that is your choice, but your safety should guide your decision. No student should feel pressured to drive on unsafe roads. Your division closed for a reason.
I hope this helps clarify the process behind these decisions. Academic time is important, but the safety of our students, staff, and families always comes first.
Thank you for your partnership, your flexibility, and the care you show one another. This community is remarkable, and I am grateful every day to serve alongside you.
Warmly,
Kristin Janssen
