January 2, 2008

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As we return from Winter Break, I am writing to remind everyone of procedures for notifying parents and the community about weather-related delays, closings, and early dismissals for Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS). We have been fortunate so far this school year not to have missed any school days due to inclement weather, but there have been delays and cancellations of after-school activities.

PGCPS announces weather-related closings, delayed openings, and early dismissals in several ways:

1. • The school system’s Web site (www.pgcps.org) and cable television stations (Channel 96 for Comcast subscribers and Channel 38 on Verizon) are updated as soon as those decisions are made;
2. • Local television and radio stations, and newspapers are notified;
3. • The public can call 301-952-6000 and select option 1 (Bulletin Board) to hear weather-related announcements;
4. • The Web site www.schoolsout.com is contacted to e-mail its subscribers of the change in schedules; and
5. • PGCPS sends e-mail messages directly to all employees.

I urge parents and guardians to discuss specific plans with children in advance of the next weather event that alters the normal school day and transportation schedule. Each child needs to know what to do in case of school cancellations, delays, and early dismissals.

Also, parents and guardians can help children and assist schools by making sure students are dressed appropriately for winter weather.

We are committed to keeping you informed when severe weather interrupts our daily schedules. Please contact your school’s principal, your Regional Office, or the High School Consortium whenever they can be of assistance. Have a wonderful New Year, and I thank you for your support and participation as we prepare every student to graduate college- and career-ready.

Cordially,

John E. Deasy

Superintendent of Schools