Dear Putnam City Schools Families,
As we approach the winter season in Oklahoma, we acknowledge the unpredictable nature of our state's weather, changing from street to street and minute to minute. We want to take this opportunity to update you on the considerations involved in school cancellations and the various communication channels utilized by the District to convey these decisions.
Deciding whether to proceed with in-person classes, transition to virtual learning, or cancel school altogether involves numerous considerations, and each decision is unique. Foremost among our concerns is the safety of our students, teachers, and staff, ensuring everyone's secure commute to and from school. We diligently monitor current weather conditions and forecasts, relying on the detailed information provided by the National Weather Service specific to the zip codes within our District. Our District Administration and Transportation Department drive bus routes as early as 3 AM, utilizing both school buses and regular vehicles to inspect road conditions, sidewalks for walking students, and the condition of our school parking lots and buildings. Covering 42 square miles, the Putnam City Schools district boundaries may experience varying weather conditions, and we must factor all areas into our decision. When forecasts and conditions allow, we strive to make this decision as early as possible to give families time to prepare.
On days when schools remain open in cold weather, outdoor activities, practices, games, and recess will not be conducted when the temperature is below 32 degrees. Athletic coaches will communicate with their teams on schedule modifications. The Putnam City Schools Foundation has a program that provides jackets, shoes, socks, or gloves, for students should there be a need. Please reach out to your school's counselor to use this program.
In the event of a District cancellation, we will communicate this decision through various channels:
- Phone, text, and email alerts
- Facebook and Instagram posts on District pages
- District website homepage updates and banners
- Push notifications for families using the Putnam City Schools app
- Broadcast announcements on all local TV stations
If your contact information has changed, please update it with your student's school or the District Enrollment Office. Download the Putnam City Schools app for Apple and Android devices from a link on our website.
We understand that school cancellations elicit mixed emotions from our students, families, teachers, and staff—ranging from excitement to disappointment. We sincerely appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we prioritize the safety of everyone within our educational community. For more information, visit our school closures website.
Go Boldly,
Putnam City Schools Administration