“When Rockwood experiences inclement weather conditions, safety is the most important consideration,” Dr. Borchers said.

During a snowfall or ice storm, the assistant superintendent of administrative services contacts a group of people who drive throughout the district to test road conditions. They make several trips if the snow continues to fall or if the weather continues to deteriorate.

Dr. Borchers then receives updates throughout the storm so he can make a decision about school cancellations early enough to notify bus drivers and families. “I believe that Rockwood parents want their children to be safe,” Dr. Borchers said. “I understand that our winter weather has been difficult this year, and the make-up days have many families looking at their schedules.”

He said the Rockwood Calendar Committee prepares the district calendar two years in advance and he encourages families to review the calendars on the district website to understand the snow day make-up schedules in advance.

With seven days lost, teachers are scrambling to make up for lost time and to reschedule tests and assignments.

Amy Doyle, social studies teacher, said the snow days are particularly damaging to AP students because the exam dates can’t be rescheduled.

“It forced me to cut out some of the enrichment activities that would’ve helped further understanding,” Doyle said.

Gracie Bower, junior, said she is angry the school year has been extended and doesn’t think it’s necessary to make up the lost days.

“We could do all the same stuff in a shorter amount of time,” Bower said.

Seniors, however, aren’t worried about Dr. Borchers declaring another snow day.

“It doesn’t really matter [for me],” Amanda Warren, senior, said. “I think it would be funny if my sister was in school until June.”