USD 383 experienced numerous closures in early January due to a massive winter storm that swept through much of the Midwest and Northeast United States.

The Manhattan area received nearly 12 inches of snow from Jan. 9-16, leading to three snow days across the district. The blizzard conditions were accompanied by subzero temperatures, reaching wind chills of -30°F over the course of the week. Icy conditions prompted yet another closure last Tuesday, Jan. 23.

“Our district does a good job focusing on whether it is safe to get to school,” Principal Michael Dorst said. “What nobody wants to do is have to make up days or make up hours.”

Regarding the possibility of additional days, Dorst stated that the school board administrators, through coordination with the state board, determine whether extended time is necessary. The more snow days pile up, the more likely the board will take action.

The winter weather at the beginning of this semester draws parallels to the extreme heat the region experienced last August. The record heatwave led to delayed practices, games, and school events. As these extreme weather events become more common, Dorst mentioned the district will do its best to adapt and keep students safe.

“There are a lot of variables that go into play,” Dorst said. “If we ever have to get to a point where we have to make up [the days]… we made them up because we are trying to keep people safe.”