Weather Closures and Procedures

Weather Closures and Procedures

Winter weather increases the likelihood of school disruptions due to snowfall or power outages. The following information outlines the district’s procedures and announcement process for weather-related school closures.

The district aims to keep schools open on every regular instructional day, including those with snowfall. However, the final decision to send students to school resides with the parent/guardian, as they are most familiar with the specific road and weather conditions around their home and community.

Weather Closure of Schools (Outside School Hours) 

Any decision to close schools for the safety of children will be made by the Superintendent. Parents/guardians, students, and staff will be informed of the Superintendent’s decision via the school district website at www.westvancouverschools.ca and a School Messenger email from the district.

Efforts are made to communicate this information to parents/guardians and staff by 6:00 a.m. on the day of closure.

Weather Closure of Schools (During School Hours) 

If weather conditions create a concern for the safety of students returning home, the school principal may decide to dismiss school early after consulting with the Superintendent.

The decision will be communicated to parents/guardians and students using the school’s normal communication systems.

Student safety is the first priority. Every effort will be made to keep schools open, but parents/guardians are encouraged to establish a plan for their children in the event of early dismissal or school closure.

For the latest information, refer to this section of the website.

Please note that school closures may also appear on West Vancouver social media platforms and local news sources.

Chris Kennedy
Superintendent of Schools
West Vancouver Schools