“Are you snowed in?” “How is my child?” “How many inches of snow do you have?” If you haven’t called to ask us these questions over the last few days, we know it’s only because you have been stopping yourself from doing so! Rest assured that we have had dedicated staff that have ensured that all of our students stay safe and warm during our snowy blizzard! Unlike other schools, we cannot close when such weather hits—our students live here and we have to be sure that the roads are cleared to get staff in, that the meals are warm (lasagna’s for lunch today!), and the programming continues. While we adjust our class schedule to ensure that the students do not have to be out and about in such weather, we must also ensure that they are able to enjoy a snow day, without getting too restless!
How do we accomplish such a feat? Our loving employees have risen to the occasion during this snow storm, just as they have in the past. Our maintenance department has worked tirelessly and virtually around the clock to clean the roads and sidewalks, even with the snow continuing to fall. They have arrived before sunrise—at 4:00 a.m.—and do not leave until far after sunset.
Even our employees who work through the night, have exemplified their duties in ensuring they were here for our students. Like Brianna, who came in early during the heaviest of the snowfall and stayed later to assist others. Other employees have driven across town to pick up snowed-in employees, like Michael and LaDonna. Those in our nutritional services, like Amber, spent the night on campus, to be sure they could be on-campus in time to prepare the food. And yet others did the same by coming to campus prepared to spend the night for days at time, like Tricia, Zack , and Kim! While our teachers, like Melinda, have come prepared with hot chocolate, games, and activities, to provide the kind of snow day for our students that we all wish to have!
Our teaching staff, residential department, and medical staff have been here without fail or complaint. What we have known along has been so clear in their actions: they love our students and are willing to do anything necessary to ensure their safety. We thank our entire staff, for in the midst of bad weather, working even harder to make our students’ daily lives more exciting (movie parties!), more fun (hot chocolate all around!), and filled with happiness & appreciate for each day, even if it is snow covered!