Inclement Weather Policy
In the event of inclement weather, Teaching the Basics may open late, close early or close for the entire day depending on the severity of the weather. This allows our staff time to arrive safely to the facility as well as to ensure adequate provision of staff to maintain proper child/staff ratios. Decisions will be made in order to protect the safety and well-being of our staff and school families.
For any of the conditions listed below, parents are encouraged to phone the School at (703) 754-1948 beginning at 6:15 a.m. to listen to a recorded message confirming our operating schedule for the day. If time permits, such information may also appear on our website www.teachingthebasics.org.
Please note: If the School is scheduled to be open, but you decide not bring your child, please call the School with this information immediately so we can plan accordingly.
School Closures or Schedule Adjustment Based on Inclement Weather
The School operating schedule during periods of inclement weather is generally, but not always, based on the decision of the Prince William County Public School System. The PWC decision is usually announed by local radio or television stations. Parents are encouraged to phone the school after 6:15 a.m. to listen to a recorded message announcing our operating schedule.
Categories of Closures or Adjustments
School Opening Late
When Prince William County Schools announce a one or two hour delayed schedule, the School will operate according to one of the following scenarios:
Opening One (1) Hour Late: When Prince William County Schools open one hour late, the School (administrative office) will open promptly at 8:30 a.m. Class times will be as follows:
Before-school care: Closed
Kindergarten, 1st Grade: 9:00 - 1:30
4-year old morning: 9:30 - 1:00
3-year old morning: 10:00 - 12:30
4-year old afternoon: Normal schedule
After-school care and Enrichment Program: Normal schedule
Opening Two (2) Hours Late: When Prince William County Schools open two hours late, The School (administrative office) will open promptly at 9:00 a.m. Class times will be as follows:
Before-school care: Closed
Kindergarten, 1st Grade: 10:00 - 1:30
4-year old morning: 10:30 - 1:00
3-year old morning: 10:00 - 12:30
4-year old afternoon: Normal schedule
After-school care and Enrichment Program: Normal schedule
Due to the abbreviated class schedule, our normal program may not be taught on delayed opening days. In this situation, other academic practice will be substituted at the teachers’ option.
School Closing Early
Announced early closure of Prince William County Schools generally does not affect the School. This is because our standard school and class schedules end early than the school schedules of PWC.
However, if the weather looks threatening, parents may call the school at (703) 754-1948 to confirm our closing time.
School Closed for the Entire Day
a. "Code Green:" When Prince William County Schools close on a "Code Green", liberal leave is in effect for their employees. Teaching the Basics will not have classes. Because weather and/or road conditions are dangerous, the School will close to protect the safety and well-being of our staff and clientele.
b. "Code Red:" When Prince William County Schools close on a "Code Red," their employees are not to report for work. Teaching the Basics will not have classes. Because weather and/or road conditions are dangerous, the School will close to protect the safety and well-being of our staff and clientele.
Bad Weather that Develops after Teaching the Basics Open:
If bad weather develops after the School opens, Teaching the Basics will make decisions based on the weather conditions on a case-by-case basis. If we deem it necessary to close early, every attempt will be made to call and e-mail all parents to inform them of the closing. If the weather looks threatening and you haven't received a call, please call (703) 754-1948 to confirm our closing time. Check your e-mails regularly as well.