Winter weather closes Ashland schools

Siskiyou Boulevard draped with snow, New Year’s Day near Ashland High School

Due to inclement weather and hazardous road conditions, Ashland School District has determined that all schools will be closed today, Jan. 3, 2017. All school-related athletic and extracurricular activities are also canceled.

New Year’s Day saw snowfall in Ashland, and the effects have continued through what would have been our first day back at school following winter break.

The U.S. National Weather Service Forecast Office out of Medford, Oregon has forecast snow accumulations up to two inches this morning, with snow showers continuing. Possible heavier snow will move in this afternoon and continue through Wednesday morning.

NWS Medford advises that the safest place is indoors during a winter storm, and travel is being strongly discouraged because of dangerous conditions. Snow-packed and slushy roads are expected to be icy because of freezing temperatures.

Ashland School District staff considers several factors when making a decision to delay start, or close its schools. From the district website: These factors include “forecasted weather, assurance that busses can transport students safely, as well as the level of safety of having students/staff using facilities on each school campus.”

ASD uses SchoolReach messaging technology to notify parents of school closures and delays. This information can be viewed on the district website, and is also broadcast on television, on channels 5, 10 and 12.