By Mallory Hayes
Editor-in-Chief
Photo by Caitlin Stephens
Let it snow! Let it snow! Athens, along with much of the southeastern United States, has experienced above-average levels of snowfall this winter. Of course, these extreme temperatures and, at times, abundant frozen precipitation systems have brought with them a general craving for school cancellations. That’s right—snow days!
It sounds simple enough. If there are flurries in the air, flakes on the ground, or storms in the forecast, then schools and businesses should cease normal operations and go into hibernation. Unfortunately, the situation is not that simple. Much goes into the decision to close our school or even to delay the start of classes.
The Rule of Thumb regarding whether Tennessee Wesleyan calls off classes revolves around the status of the Athens City school system. If they close, then we close. The situation cannot always be left to what the meteorologist says will happen. As Dr. Scott Mashburn points out, “it could be threatening a large amount, but we could end up with nothing.” Indeed, it is a difficult decision that requires some accumulation before cancellations are truly necessary.
Normally, the decision is made by 5:00 or 6:00 a.m. on the morning in question. This gives students ample time to receive the news before getting on the roads. Dean Mashburn realizes the “frustration of the commuters from more rural areas.” Just because roads are clear in Athens, it does not necessarily mean that the trip is safe for every single commuting student. For this reason, all are asked to use their best judgment in deciding whether or not to travel. Those who decide to stay home are also encouraged to notify their professors of their decision.
When conditions are seen as passable for the vast majority of the Wesleyan family, classes will most likely continue as scheduled. As always, however, necessary measures will be taken by the maintenance staff and the administration when inclement weather strikes!
