February 25, 2024

Environment Canada has issued a heavy snowfall warning for the Edmonton area, saying that rapidly accumulating snow could make travel difficult in some locations. 

As a result, there may be possible delays to student transportation. ECSD will notify families as soon as we become aware of a delay but it's important families have a backup plan. You are also encouraged to monitor and subscribe to notifications through the BusPlanner Delays App. 

Keeping Schools Open in Inclement Weather

Edmonton Catholic Schools prioritizes keeping schools open in extreme weather conditions to provide a safe, warm, and secure environment for students who attend. If you decide to keep your child home in severe weather, please let your school know. 

If there is a weather situation that requires the Division to cancel classes, ECSD families will be notified either by the school or the Division. 

Edmonton Catholic Schools has procedures in place for inclement weather. 

Yellow Bus Service

Our transportation system has an excellent record for service; however, given the possible extremes of Edmonton weather and the potential for unexpected mechanical difficulties, it is impossible to guarantee buses will run on time or at all. A route can take significantly longer in adverse weather conditions. 

If weather delays or cancellations happen, we will notify families as soon as we become aware. You are encouraged to monitor and subscribe to notifications through the BusPlanner Delays App. 

Families should have a backup plan with their children, so they have clear instructions about what to do if their bus does not arrive. Families must ensure that their child knows to return home or to a pre-selected location and it is the responsibility of the family to make alternate arrangements to get their child to school.

Recess and Outdoor Activities 

Decisions regarding outdoor activities are guided by Administrative Procedure 131. The suggested guideline is that students do not go outside if the temperature and wind chill factor are -20° C or colder. 

Recess will be moved indoors only during extreme weather conditions, so students are to come to school dressed appropriately for the outdoors. 

Emergency procedures remain in effect regardless of the weather.