Jim Frey, Assistant Superintendent

Greetings—In case you haven’t noticed, winter is here.  We have had our first taste of snow, and the increase in traffic heading east on the Mount Baker Highway indicates that the mountain is open for business.  For our schools the drop in temperature, shortened day light hours, and white stuff on the ground precipitates a review of inclement weather plans and transportation safety guidelines.  It is our goal to provide the safest possible environment for our students and staff.

I was extremely pleased to watch my daughter get off the school bus the other day and wait for the ok from her bus driver before she and other students crossed the road.  It was clearly evident that the bus driver had communicated the importance of waiting for her permission before proceeding, as she is the one who is able to determine whether the situation was safe.   My hat goes off to all of our drivers who take on the incredible responsibility of transporting students to and from our schools, especially during the winter season when road conditions can be hazardous, and visibility limited due to weather conditions. 

During this part of the school year, we want to be diligent in ensuring a safe trip to and from school for all of our students, whether they are riding a bus, driving a car, or riding with a family member or friend.  Please remind your students to remain vigilant as they are waiting for the bus, staying well off the road, especially when visibility is limited and roads are icy.  Driving defensively, at a reasonable rate of speed, will help to reduce accidents and guard against miscalculations, which can be devastating.  Please take some time to review your expectations for driving safely and the tremendous responsibility drivers have to keep themselves and others safe.

The safety and learning of your children are the prime concerns of the entire staff at the Mount Baker School District.  Please contact us if you have any questions regarding our safety plans or inclement weather procedures.

Please be sure to take advantage of our Weather & Information Line—383-2070.  This line handles several calls simultaneously and is updated whenever necessary with changes in bus routes, school schedules and closures.

We’ve linked to our updated “Snow Routes” for your information.