Inclement Weather Procedures for BC
We are well into the month of December, which means it’s going to be winter soon. And with winter comes a lot of inclement weather, along with postponements, closures and delays, including class delays and cancelations at Bluefield College.
As a student at Bluefield College, have you ever wondered what goes into making the decision to delay classes or close the school? Have you ever asked yourself what procedures the school uses in the event of inclement weather.
According to the college’s Inclement Weather Policies and Procedures document, the decision to delay or cancel classes is based on two primary factors: 1) current weather/ road conditions, and 2) anticipated changes in weather/road conditions.
And, when classes are cancelled or delayed, the decision is based on what seems best for the majority of students since weather and road conditions can vary from county to county and even within counties. In the event of inclement weather, college officials may choose to invoke one of two options: 1) operate on inclement weather schedule with classes beginning on a two-hour delay, or 2) cancel classes entirely.
“By 5:45 a.m. each day, if not the evening before, road and weather conditions are assessed by the director of maintenance and the vice president for academic affairs,” said Dr. Marshall Flowers, BC’s VP for academics who participates in the decision making process. “If a delay or cancelation decision is to be made, it will be determined by 6 a.m.”
Dr. Flowers said that he and the director of maintenance then notify the associate vice president for student development and the director of public relations who inform students, faculty, staff and the media about the status of classes.
“It’s pretty difficult trying to make it to class on inclement weather days,” said commuter student Faith Pike. “I drive from Tazewell, so snowy, icy roads are hard to drive on, especially if classes are still on regular schedule.”
Pike said the roads are worse in the mornings, and that just last year she wrecked her car driving home from class on a very snowy day.
“The roads were horrible,” she said. “I’d suggest some consideration for those whose commute. I’m not exactly sure of the specifics, but do believe they need to consider changes concerning commuters. Commuters make up a large portion of the student body, so their safety needs to be a priority when it comes to horrible road conditions.”