Severe Weather Notices

The primary criteria we consider when making a decision to close buildings include:

• The safety and well-being of students and staff
• Severity of the weather (extreme cold, flooding, heat, etc.)
• Timing of weather (overnight, weekend, etc.)
• The ability for buses and cars to travel safely

We continually monitor the forecast from the National Weather Service, and the superintendent meets with numerous administrators in order to make the best decision for students, staff and families. 

Making the Decision

The superintendent makes a decision to move to e-learning after consulting with the administrative team and other stakeholders as needed. The superintendent may consult with the superintendents from other metro school districts and the Minnesota Department of Education for additional perspective. Knowing transportation can be more difficult on days with winter weather conditions, Transportation Department staff members work throughout the evening and early morning to ensure that buses will run at or near schedule and that students will not wait too long at bus stops. The Communications Department communicates the status of learning to families and staff.

Inclement Weather Days Become E-learning Days

Instruction for MPS students will continue even on days when weather conditions make physically being in school difficult. The State of Minnesota has approved up to five “e-learning days” for schools annually. E-learning days allow students to continue learning and also reduce the chance that schools will have to make up days at the end of the school year due to inclement weather days.

Learn more about e-learning days.

Food Resources

For a list of food resources when our school buildings are closed, visit the City of Minneapolis website.