At Joplin Schools, the safety of our students is our highest priority. However, we also place an equally high value on instructional time, and snow days mean our students are missing out on classroom learning. For this reason, the decision to cancel classes is rarely simple. And, with Missouri weather, it often requires a certain amount of guesswork and faith in weather forecasts. 

Below is a reminder of Joplin School's inclement weather protocol:

• The transportation director checks roads, including side roads, to determine safety of transportation during inclement weather. This generally takes place before 5:30 a.m.

• The transportation director shares feedback from the road check with the superintendent and, based on this feedback and current and forecasted weather conditions, the superintendent determines whether classes are canceled. A decision regarding canceling classes will be made by 6 a.m.

• If classes are canceled, that information is shared with staff, parents, and the community through the Facebook and Twitter pages, local media outlets, and a phone message and text.

Joplin Schools will notify the local media outlets listed below.

Today may be 60 degrees, and tomorrow there may be a foot of snow. It's hard to predict Missouri weather, but planning ahead can help parents and students manage its unpredictability. Taking a few moments now to develop a plan for when school is canceled, especially with short notice, can help parents and students prepare for the dreaded (or beloved) snow day!

Please note: FTC adult classes follow the same schedule as Joplin Schools. If classes are canceled for Joplin Schools, they will be canceled for FTC adult classes as well. 

Childcare Options

When school is out due to weather, holidays, or teacher professional development, the Joplin Family Y offers childcare.

Learn more.