Emergency Closing Procedures

Emergency School Closing Information

Joliet Public Schools District 86 takes the responsibility of closing schools seriously.  Generally, schools will remain open except during extreme weather conditions.  The decision is based on a number of factors including road conditions, weather reports, bus availability, and most importantly, the ultimate safety of our students and employees.

A decision to close schools will typically be made by 5:00 a.m.  When schools are closed, all extra-curricular school activities are also canceled.  An automated telephone message will be sent out to families and staff members using our emergency notification system.

In addition, the information will be posted on our website (www.joliet86.org), social media accounts (Facebook and Twitter). The information is also sent to Joliet and Chicago media outlets including radio, television, and newspapers. These resources should be checked for closing, delays, and early dismissals. Please do not call the school office for the information that these resources share. In the event of an emergency, it is unlikely that your calls for information will get through to the office and your calls may delay emergency calls.

Please make sure your child’s school has all current phone numbers on file so we can notify you of any emergencies.  Thank you for helping us keep all of our students and staff safe.

Note the following about the various changes to school schedules that may occur:

• Delayed Start: A delayed start to the school day is a two-hour delay to the usual schedule. Continue to monitor delayed starts as they may turn into school closings if conditions warrant.
  • Bus pick-ups will be two hours later than usual.
  • The student school day will begin two hours later than usual.
• Early Release: An early release may be necessary if weather or other safety conditions develop during the school day. Afternoon and evening activities will be canceled unless we announce otherwise. It is a good practice to plan with your child and a reliable adult for this unlikely, but possible, scenario.
• School Closure: A school closure will result in the cancellation of all Joliet Public Schools District 86 classes and activities unless we announce otherwise.

E-Learning Days

E-Learning Days will now replace traditional snow days. E-Learning will be utilized on days when inclement weather (or other emergencies) prohibit school to be in session. During the winter season, all students should bring their District technology device home every day. Click Here for E-Learning Day details.