Fredericton — The Anglophone West School District is celebrating what it calls the successful rollout of its “flexible snow day” policy, which adjusts school cancellations based on both snowfall amounts and — more importantly — the day of the week.
“Student safety is our top priority, especially when snow falls on Fridays or Mondays,” said Superintendent Margie Tupper. “Research clearly shows that a light dusting on these days poses significantly greater risks than heavier storms midweek.”
Under the policy, Fridays and Mondays trigger school closures with as little as 1-2 centimetres of snow. In contrast, Thursdays, like today’s active snowfall warning, require students to brave the elements unless the district detects imminent signs of arctic survival conditions.
Parents have been quick to notice the pattern. “Last Friday, schools closed for what could generously be described as frost,” said local mom Hannah Stevens. “But today? There’s a blizzard outside, and my kids are using snowshoes to get to the bus stop.”
Students, however, have embraced the trend, dubbing it the “Pre-Weekend Whiteout Effect.” “We know the rules,” said Grade 11 student Jaden MacKay. “If it’s Friday and you see snow on the Weather Network, don’t bother setting your alarm. Thursdays? Better get your boots.”
Despite the occasional head-scratcher, the district insists the plan is working. “The flexible threshold has been a great success,” said Tupper. “We’re keeping kids safe and ensuring they get the learning they need — just not too close to a long weekend.”
As Fredericton digs out of today’s storm, locals are left wondering: will the district’s snow day science ever explain exactly what day is the safest day for snow?