Good morning,

I want to provide a brief update regarding this morning’s decision to open schools. I also want to make families and staff aware of a potential calendar adjustment should we experience additional weather-related closures. As always, we followed our established process—reviewing forecast models, assessing road conditions, and consulting directly with M&J Bus Company, Colchester Public Works, and our Facilities Director before making the call. Based on the information available early this morning and our assessment of local conditions, we determined that we could operate safely.

It’s no secret that superintendents remain in communication during weather events. While some districts elected to close—many due to ongoing cleanup from the earlier blizzard—we assessed conditions specific to Colchester. As the morning progressed, road conditions in certain areas deteriorated more quickly than anticipated. We remained in contact with transportation and town officials throughout. I am pleased to report that all buses arrived and all students and staff are safe.

We did have one bus become stuck on Cato Corner after pulling to the side to allow an oncoming vehicle to pass. The right-side wheels became caught in snow that had accumulated from the previous storm. We are grateful to Public Works and Andrew Barillari for their prompt response and assistance.

I understand that mornings like this can create stress and uncertainty for families and staff. Weather decisions are rarely perfect, particularly when conditions shift quickly. Please know that student and staff safety remains the sole driver of every decision we make.

At this time, radar is clear and we do not anticipate any issues with dismissal. We will continue to monitor conditions throughout the day.
Looking ahead, the forecast suggests we may encounter additional weather challenges over the next week. For planning purposes, please note that if we need to cancel school again, next Friday, March 6 will shift from a scheduled professional development day to a student day.

Thank you for your continued flexibility and partnership during what has been an active stretch of winter weather.

Sincerely,
Daniel P. Sullivan III
Superintendent of Schools