The Durango School District Academic Calendar reflects additional days at the end of the school year. These extra days may not need to be used. The days are added each year as a buffer to plan ahead in the event of multiple winter storms.
Staff and families should be aware that school may extend into these days and plan vacations or personal time accordingly.
What to expect on a Snow Day
We understand that Snow Days are a disruption of routine that affects many people. We appreciate everyone's patience and understanding that winter weather is unpredictable in our region.
If the district decides to call a Snow Day, there will be a mass notification sent around 5:30 a.m. The message will be sent via simultaneous phone call, text message, and email to students, staff, and students' primary contacts. Please make sure your contact information is correct in Infinite Campus so you will receive these important alerts.
You can also verify that your phone is set up to receive these messages:
- To receive DSD emergency phone calls: Call (855) 502-7867 from the phone line you wish to receive calls and follow the prompts.
- To receive text messages: Text START to (970) 414-3556 from the phone you wish to receive texts.
- Check your Junk or Spam folder for emails, and make sure Durango School District is listed as a safe sender.
- Note that if you opt out by typing "STOP" to any emergency message from the district, you will no longer receive any messages.
- If you are still not receiving messages after following the steps above, fill out the DSD Communication Issue Report form.
If roads are determined to be safe for buses during winter weather, please expect delays. Drivers will proceed slowly and carefully to keep students safe. Students should wear warm winter clothing and footwear to wait at bus stops.
Two-hour Snow Delay possible
On occasion, a Delayed Opening message will be delivered. This is an effort to give road workers a two-hour window to clear the roads. Please note that a Snow Day closure may still be called after a delay message is sent around 5:30 a.m. Before leaving for school after a delay message, please check your phone and email, visit our website at durangoschools.org, or call the District Information Line at (970) 375-3811 to determine whether school will be open or closed.
How are Snow Day decisions made?
Decisions around Snow Days are made using a comprehensive strategy. Here are some resources to understand the district’s decision-making process:
- Snow Day Timeline: This infographic explains when and how the decision is made.
- Snow Day FAQs: This document answers common questions about the process.