Please refer to the SCHOOL HANDBOOK for procedures
related to non-weather emergencies.

Inclement Weather and School Closing Information

During the winter months, unpredictable weather may make it necessary to alter school opening and closing patterns.

The decision whether to close school is an important one – not only because of the safety issues involved for more than 73,000 students and thousands of Fulton County Schools employees, but also because our primary responsibility is to improve the student achievement of those 73,000 students attending our schools. If school is closed – even for just one day – educational opportunities will be missed.

Who is watching the weather?

The Superintendent and administrative staff carefully watch the weather conditions during seasons of possible inclement weather.

How do they make their decision to close schools?

At approximately 2 a.m. , the Fulton County Schools Executive Director of Transportation begins to make contact with various organizations to get initial information about weather conditions and the possible effects on roads and schools. The National Weather Service is contacted for the latest forecast information, as well as the Georgia Department of Transportation for the latest road and bridge information. The emergency services (911) of Fulton County and surrounding counties also are contacted to see if there are any reports of hazardous road conditions. Field observations include interstate highways, state highways, county roads, bridges, and also subdivisions that historically have been problematic during inclement weather.

Transportation staff also checks the schools to see if there is icing in the parking lots and on walkways that may cause a hazard for staff and students. The school system's Facility Department is then notified to address any problems found. Additionally, the Facilities Department is responsible for reporting any problems with school heating or electrical units that will adversely affect the district's ability to open school.

When is the decision to close schools made?

The final decision on whether to close schools is made prior to 5 a.m. so that radio and TV stations can be notified. The Superintendent makes the decision based on information gathered from our school system staff, the National Weather Service, Fulton County and adjoining county road departments, Fulton County and adjoining county emergency services departments, and other nearby school systems.

How is the public notified?

The public is notified as soon as possible through contact with television and radio stations. Below are the media sites that will be notified in the event of Fulton County School System closings: