Dear Families,
The start of the school year has been busy, filled with new routines, fresh faces, and the excitement of getting everything up and running smoothly.
As we're enjoying all that fall has to offer, we also need to remember that winter is coming quickly. While winter brings more fun, inspiring events, it also brings some different challenges. We wanted to share some important updates with families.
Winter Weather Procedure
First, we want to make sure all families are aware of our procedures for weather-related school closings, delays and early dismissals. The procedures are largely the same as in years past, however we know it’s always helpful to get a reminder. Please read on to find that information.
Winter weather is approaching, and occasionally inclement weather can impact school. Before the first snowflakes fall, we wanted to share these reminders on our procedures. The superintendent of schools is empowered to take one of several actions in the case of inclement weather:
● Close all schools for the day
● Declare a remote learning day
● Delay opening by two hours
● Dismiss students early
How we make decisions: In addition to consulting weather reports, the superintendent works with numerous city departments, including Facilities, Highways, and the Emergency Operations Center. Additionally, the superintendent consults with superintendents from surrounding districts.
When we make decisions: In most cases, we make the decision to close or delay the start of school the morning of school. (In the case of major storms, we occasionally make and announce a decision a day in advance.) Manchester School District works to notify families promptly if school is closed or delayed.
How we notify families: Families will receive a text message, email and automated phone call. In addition, closing information is shared on district social media, the district’s website through the NIXLE alert system and with local media outlets. Please note if the decision is made late at night, phone calls will not be made, only text and emails will be used along with social media, the district’s website, through the NIXLE alert system and with local media outlets.
What about remote learning? The District, has the ability to use remote learning instead of closing school, but we can only do this after three weather-related cancellations.
Please Note: When school is cancelled, delayed or there is an early release, The 21st Century Program does not run on these days.
Winter Weather Resources
Next, we want to share some important resources families can utilize to get help with heating fuel. You can find the state’s fuel assistance information here: https://www.energy.nh.gov/consumers/help-energy-and-utility-bills/fuel-assistance-program
Another Resource is NH 211: Your connection to health and human service programs. Dial 211 for help with food, housing, utilities, mental health and more. https://211nh.org/
I also want to provide a reminder to families that our school social workers are an important resource – who can help to connect you with a range of support services. Please remember that we’re all in this together.
Food Resources
Restaurants Offering Free or Reduced Cost Meals - https://5il.co/3s2dy
Mobile Food Pantry Locations - https://5il.co/3s2dw
SNAP Food Pantries and Food Box Pick-up Locations - https://5il.co/3s2dx
Please click this link https://www.mansd.org/page/community-food-resources
to view our Community Food Resources Webpage
A Note From Our School Nurses
Since we spend more time inside during the cold/winter months with doors and windows closed, illness can spread more quickly in the school.
• Children who arrive at school sick (see guidelines below) should NOT remain in school.
• A child with a fever (I00° F or greater) should not come to school until his/her temperature is normal
(about 98.6°F or less) for a minimum of 24 hours without having taken any fever-reducing medication.
Here are some guidelines to follow:
COLDS: Please remind your child/children about frequent handwashing and covering their mouths
when they cough or sneeze. Children should not come to school if they feel especially tired/listless.
DIARRHEA AND VOMITING: If your child has vomited or experienced diarrhea during the night, please
do not send him/her to school that morning. They should be symptom-free for 24 hours before
returning to school.
CHICKENPOX: Please notify the school nurse if you suspect that your child has chickenpox. Children
with chickenpox should remain out of school for about 7 days, or until all lesions are crusted.
STREP, SORE THROAT AND SCARLET FEVER: Students should be treated by a health care provider
and may not attend school until he/she is on antibiotics and without a fever for at least 24 hours.
CAUTION: Do not give aspirin or products containing salicylates (aspirin) during chickenpox, flu or colds. This may cause Reyes Syndrome which can lead to neurological, liver, spleen, pancreas, heart and/or kidney damage.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your school nurse
Wear Bright and Reflective Clothing When Walking to and from School or at the Bus Stop
Mornings and evenings have gotten darker at this time of year. Make it easier for drivers to see students who are standing at bus stops or walking to school. Have them wear bright-colored clothing or clothes with a reflective fabric. Add reflective stickers to their backpacks.
Important Upcoming Dates:
Thursday, November 6, 2025: Elementary Conferences 3 - 6 PM
Friday, November 7, 2025: Early Release at 11:15 AM - K-4 Only/No Preschool - Conferences 11:50 - 2:50 PM
Tuesday, November 11, 2025: No School - Veterans Day
Wednesday - Friday, November 26-28, 2025: No School - Thanksgiving Break
Additional upcoming dates can be found here
Sincerely,
Jennifer Chmiel,
Superintendent of Schools