Careful Decisions…
Dear Saline Families,
Over the past eight winters as the Superintendent for Saline Schools, I have been tasked with making difficult decisions about school cancellations. Weather is unpredictable, and especially so in Michigan. In previous years, there have been between zero and nine days where school was cancelled due to inclement weather.
This past week, school was open. In making that decision, I gathered information from a variety of sources, weighed the options and considered the alternatives. I posted to the school website the criteria used to consider cancellation. Based on all of the information, the decision to keep the buildings open was sound.
There is one overarching theme in this decision-making process: The safety of the students and staff will always come first.
As with other controversial matters, when decisions are made others may not agree. This week, some families did not agree with the decision to keep the schools open when the temperatures dipped below zero. I listened to, and read on social media, many of your concerns. I continue to reflect on the concerns raised, and appreciate the respectful criticisms voiced.
I urge students, parents and community members to use social media responsibly and respectfully when airing concerns. Making the safest decisions regarding weather closures is my aim. I appreciate your feedback and courteous use of the media. These difficult decisions are never easy. I am committed to making wise, purposeful decisions and I appreciate your support.
Sincerely,
Scot A. Graden, Superintendent
Saline Area Schools
Scot Graden's Blog 
That is all well and dandy for the kids that are able to receive rides to school or are lucky enough to have buses that pick them up. But what about the children who have no other option but to walk to school in -25 below temperatures? When frostbite sets in in mere minutes, and they have no boots, hats or gloves? To me that putting their safety first. I respect your choice at the same time I will keep my walker home on those days and it will be an excused absence!
—->> Tonya.. Let me know if you need some boots, hats, and gloves. I probably have some from when my kids were younger..
I dont need them. But I saw 4 children walking to school that day when the temp was -21 and those children did NOT have the proper clothing on for the weather! These days you don’t dare stop and offer them a ride for fear of being accused of alternative motives. My heart goes out to those children all because others want school to stay open at all costs!
I’m glad the schools were open. Last year when we had so may days off it disrupted my children’s learning. I think parents should make sure their children have warm outdoor clothing to wear to go to and from school and should ask the school or Saline Social,Services for help if they can’t afford the cold weather gear. Michigan winters are cold. We need to expect and be prepared for freezing temperatures in the winter.