Dear SDMA Faculty and Staff,

Welcome to the second semester of the 2024-25 school year! While the first semester started off with some very hot weather conditions, our community is now experiencing the other end of the temperature spectrum. When outdoor temperatures become extreme on either side of the thermometer, questions naturally arise about possible school closures. 

Since the health and safety of students and staff are a top priority in the SDMA, everyone in the district office will be keeping a close eye on the forecast for tomorrow morning. Right now it is looking like schools in the SDMA will stay open tomorrow, but families may want to refer to this wind chill chart from the National Weather Service when making family decisions. It is currently anticipated that tomorrow morning will be within the threshold where frostbite could occur in 30 minutes, so extra care should be taken when going outside for any sustained periods of time. Students driving themselves to school should be sure to have winter clothes in their vehicle in case something unexpected happens.

If the forecast changes to the point where frostbite can be anticipated in 10 minutes or less, it is likely that classes in the SDMA will be delayed or cancelled.

Thankfully, Menomonie Transportation is ready to operate school buses in very cold temperatures, and facilities in the SDMA are outfitted with HVAC systems that do a good job maintaining safe (and mostly comfortable temperatures). With that noted, it would still be a good idea to dress a little warmer when the outside temperatures are below zero.

No matter what is decided for having school tomorrow, it is up to families to determine what is appropriate and safe for your child(ren). 

Have a good night and stay warm!

Joe Zydowsky
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Joseph E. Zydowsky, PhD
District Administrator
School District of the Menomonie Area
215 Pine Avenue NE
Menomonie, WI 54751
[email protected]
www.twitter.com/joezydowsky
Phone: (715) 232-1642