Severe Weather Policy

Mother Nature brings frigid temperatures and heavy snow in the winter, along with severe storms in the spring. I plan ahead for unsafe weather conditions so children stay safe and families know what to expect when conditions change.

Severe Winter Weather

Wisconsin is no stranger to winter weather, including heavy snow, ice, freezing rain, sleet, and mixed precipitation. Because many parents must report to work regardless of weather, Amy & Kids Co. will remain open during severe weather whenever it is safe to do so.

When weather conditions raise safety concerns, I may open late, close early, or close for the day.

• If Appleton Area School District schools are delayed or closed due to severe weather the program may also delay opening or close for the day.
• If Valley Transit bus services are closed due to severe weather, it is an indication that roads are not safe for travel and the program will be closed.
• If your place of employment is closed or you are unable to report to work due to hazardous travel conditions, it is assumed that you will not need child care services and your child will be absent.
• If severe weather begins, worsens, or is expected to worsen during the day, the center may dismiss early, and parents will be contacted to pick up their children.
• Parents are welcome to pick their children up early at any time if they feel the roads are, or will become, too dangerous to navigate safely.

Absence due to Severe Weather

I trust families to make decisions based on their own travel conditions and needs. If you decide to keep your child home due to severe weather (or any other reason), please let me know as soon as possible so I know that you and your child are safe.

Notification of Severe Weather Closures

Closure or delay updates will be sent through Daily Connect and/or text. Please check your phone in the morning and throughout the day during uncertain weather conditions. You are also welcome to text before heading out to confirm the program is open.

Watch Your Step

During winter months, please use extra caution on the property. Snow and ice are cleared as time allows, but my first responsibility is the children, so surfaces may be slippery. Ice melt is available on the porch if needed.

Severe Thunderstorms and Tornadoes

Spring means the end of snow and ice, but it also brings the threat of tornadoes and severe thunderstorms.

If the tornado siren sounds, the children and I will move to the basement family room until the “all clear” signal is given. Attendance is tracked using Daily Connect.

The basement is equipped with food, water, a bathroom, blankets, first aid supplies, flashlights, and emergency items. A pack and play is available for infants, along with toys, books, and other materials to help children stay comfortable while we wait.

Loss of Services

If the center loses heat, water, electricity, or phone service, I’ll assess the situation and decide whether it’s safe to stay open. If not, families will be contacted for pickup and the program will remain closed until services are restored.

Please be aware that full tuition is still due when the program is closed due to severe weather or loss of services.