Nov. 22, 2024 ~ As we approach the winter months, we want to make you aware of a new option to address inclement weather when it arises. This year, we are pleased to introduce a new Two-Hour Delayed Start option. 
 

The Two-Hour Delayed Start option addresses feedback and requests we continue to hear from our community for more flexibility related to inclement weather, rather than an all or nothing approach to snow days. The delayed start option provides the opportunity to hold school once inclement weather conditions resolve or improve, maximizing instructional time and reducing the need to add instructional minutes or make-up days at the end of the school year.  

On days when the two-hour delay is implemented, all school start times and morning bus pick-up times will be delayed by two hours. Schools will end their day at the regular time and after-school bus routes will also run on their regular schedule. Please note that bus schedules on the Stopfinder bus app will not reflect the two-hour delay. 

Two-Hour Delayed Start – School Hours 

• High School, Olathe Transition Support Program (OTSP), Prairie Learning Center:
  • 9:40 a.m.- 2:40 p.m.
• Middle School:
  • 10:20 a.m.-3:20 p.m.
• Elementary School:
  • 10:55 a.m.- 3:55 p.m.
  • Morning early childhood classes are canceled.
  • Afternoon early childhood classes attend as regularly scheduled.
• Heartland Early Childhood Center:
  • 10:20 a.m. – 3:20 p.m.
  • Morning early childhood classes are canceled.
  • Afternoon early childhood classes attend as regularly scheduled.
  • Full-day Head Start classes follow the delayed start schedule.
• Harmony Early Childhood Center:
  • 10:55 a.m. -3:55 p.m.
  • Morning early childhood classes are canceled.
  • Afternoon early childhood classes attend as regularly scheduled.
  • Full-day Head Start classes follow the delayed start schedule. 

Other Important Delayed Start Information 

• Breakfast service will not be provided on delayed start days due to arrival times being so close to lunch. Lunch service will be provided as close to the normal time as possible.
• All student trips leaving prior to noon are canceled.
• All before-school athletics/activities practices are canceled. Decisions on after-school athletics and activities will be made later in the day.
• JCPRD daycare will be delayed two hours in the morning (9-11 a.m.) and will follow regular afternoon hours at buildings where JCPRD is offered. Children must be enrolled in JCPRD to participate.
• Parochial and work site shuttles scheduled prior to noon are canceled (i.e. CREWS, OTSP).
• Transportation for partner schools is delayed by two hours (Lake Mary, Kansas School for the Deaf, etc.).

All inclement weather decisions will be made by 6 a.m., including the decision to delay the start of school. As always, the district will prioritize the safety and security of our staff, students and families when making decisions related to inclement weather. Based on weather conditions, there may not be a need to utilize the Two-Hour Delayed Start option this year. However, if the district decides to use the delayed start, the decision will be made with the safety and security of all in mind. 

Finally, please know that we recognize this new delayed start option is just that - new. While we always strive to anticipate all questions, challenges and “what-ifs,” we recognize that there may be areas for growth or improvement with this delayed start option moving forward. As a district, we are committed to learning from the implementation, if this option is used, and will make adjustments moving forward to ensure this option works best for and meets the needs of our students, families and staff. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we navigate this new option that helps prioritize instructional time with our students during the regularly scheduled school year. 

For more information on inclement weather cancellations and delays, including a list of Frequently Asked Questions, how families can expect to be notified of inclement weather decisions, and more, please visit the district website.