District says it considers weather, nutrition in closures

By Marcus Clem

Ahead of Monday afternoon’s winter storm, local educators chose to trust the forecast and send students home early, taking various factors into consideration.

Superintendent Gabe Edgar said he knew that conditions on Monday morning did not yet warrant a closure. Yet with the National Weather Service issuing a Winter Storm Warning from Monday morning until at least 6 p.m. Tuesday, it seemed clear, Edgar said, that an early release would be justified — as long as enough time was allowed for a full day’s nutrition.

“And, the kids have been on break for quite a while, and we do have a high poverty level here in St. Joseph,” he said. “And so I was really wanting to get a meal to them, breakfast and lunch to those kids who haven’t had a good meal for a long time.”

Classes ultimately let out three hours early, with Monday being the first day of academics to occur since Dec. 21, 2023, in observance of the holidays.

“It’s never a popular decision, you’re going to have (someone) that’s gonna be critical, but one thing that I would tell you is that I look myself in the mirror at 5:30 (a.m.) and tell myself that it was the right decision,” Edgar said.

Edgar has the power to decide what schools will be open and when, but he follows district policy in doing so. The Board of Education can modify that policy, although it typically applies whatever state-level experts suggest. Some board candidates offered their thoughts on this matter on Monday. They are seeking election on April 2.

“Weather forecasts are designed to inform the public of possible threats,” Steven Carrillo said. “Certainly, the district uses these warnings as a way to guide and formulate plans that put student safety first. Student safety should always be the goal.”

Warren Ingram III said the schools need to be in operation whenever possible.

“The schools should stay open, even on a limited basis,” he said. “Too many kids who rely on school meals would suffer if they are closed.”

LaTonya Williams said she is always on the side of caution when it comes to making a closure decision. Leaders have to feel confident making a decision even though volatile Missouri weather can sometimes make it seem unnecessary after the fact.

“The safety of our students is always the main priority,” she said. “Each district has their own specific set of weather, roads and snow removal procedures … Our district makes the decision on the morning of … It’s not a perfect policy, but it’s the best we can do when the weather isn’t stable.”

Sean Connors endorsed Edgar’s consideration of student nutrition in deciding the matter of early release, rather than a complete closure, on Monday.

“This early-out ensured that kids get to eat breakfast and lunch but still get out in time before the heavy snow hits,” Connors said. “I support this decision by the administration to support the 70% of kids who qualify for free/reduced lunch to be fed and still get in some class time.”