As of now, there is no official announcement regarding the closure of Wichita Public Schools (USD 259) for Monday, January 6, 2025. The district typically informs families and staff about closures or delays through various communication channels only when such decisions are made.
Weather Forecast and Potential Impact
The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Storm Warning for Sedgwick County, effective from 6:00 AM CST on Saturday until 3:00 PM CST on Sunday. The forecast predicts heavy mixed precipitation, including snow accumulations between 3 and 6 inches, sleet, and ice, with wind gusts up to 45 mph. These conditions could lead to hazardous travel and potential power outages.
 12 AM | 8° | Cloudy |
 1 AM | 8° | Intermittent clouds |
| 2 AM | 7° | Partly cloudy |
| 3 AM | 6° | Mostly clear |
 4 AM | 4° | Clear |
| 5 AM | 3° | Clear |
| 6 AM | 2° | Mostly clear |
| 7 AM | 1° | Mostly clear |
 8 AM | 0° | Mostly sunny |
| 9 AM | 1° | Mostly sunny |
| 10 AM | 4° | Mostly sunny |
| 11 AM | 7° | Mostly sunny |
| 12 PM | 8° | Mostly sunny |
| 1 PM | 10° | Mostly sunny |
| 2 PM | 12° | Mostly sunny |
| 3 PM | 13° | Mostly sunny |
| 4 PM | 12° | Mostly sunny |
| 5 PM | 10° | Mostly sunny |
| 6 PM | 8° | Mostly clear |
| 7 PM | 6° | Mostly clear |
| 8 PM | 6° | Mostly clear |
| 9 PM | 5° | Mostly clear |
| 10 PM | 4° | Mostly clear |
| 11 PM | 4° | Mostly clear |
Wichita Public Schools Protocol for Weather-Related Closures
Wichita Public Schools prioritize the safety of students, staff, and parents during severe weather conditions. The district has established procedures to determine school closures or delays:
- Decision-Making Process: The district assesses weather forecasts, road conditions, and the safety of transportation routes. Decisions are typically made early in the morning to provide timely notifications.
- Notification Channels: In the event of closures or delays, information is disseminated through:
- District Website: Updates are posted on the main page and all school websites.
- Automated Communication: Families and staff receive notifications via phone, email, and text messages.
- Social Media: Announcements are shared on the district’s official social media platforms.
- Local Media: Information is provided to local news outlets for broader dissemination.
Historical Context of Weather-Related Closures
While the district does not typically announce when schools are in session during winter weather events, they do communicate cancellations or delays when necessary. For instance, during a winter storm in January 2024, Wichita Public Schools remained open due to favorable ground temperatures and city street conditions, while other districts closed.
Recommendations for Parents and Students
Given the current weather advisories, it’s advisable for families to:
- Stay Informed: Monitor official district communications and local news outlets for any updates regarding school schedules.
- Update Contact Information: Ensure that your contact details are current in the district’s system to receive timely notifications.
- Plan Accordingly: Prepare for potential delays in transportation and consider safety precautions for commuting in adverse weather conditions.
Communication Channels for School Closures
| Communication Channel | Details |
|---|---|
| District Website | www.usd259.org |
| Automated Messages | Phone, email, and text notifications to families and staff |
| Social Media | Official district accounts on platforms like Facebook and Twitter |
| Local Media | Updates provided to local news stations and newspapers |
As of now, Wichita Public Schools have not announced any closures for Monday, January 6, 2025. Given the severe weather forecast, it’s crucial to stay informed through official district communications and local news outlets for any updates. The safety of students and staff remains the district’s top priority, and any decisions regarding school schedules will be made with this in mind.
FAQs
How will I be notified if schools are closed on Monday?
The district will send automated messages via phone, email, and text. Updates will also be available on the district’s website and social media platforms.
What factors influence the decision to close schools due to weather?
The district considers weather forecasts, road conditions, and the safety of transportation routes when deciding on closures or delays.
Are extracurricular activities affected by weather-related closures?
Yes, if schools are closed due to weather, all extracurricular activities, practices, and events are typically canceled as well.
