It’s usually the students who get tested.

On Wednesday, Dec. 9, 2009, Palmetto Christian Academy administration and the PTA were the ones being tested.

Although the grades aren’t in, initial response is that the school passed with flying colors.

The test? The Lakelands faced some severe weather with heavy rain and winds, along with many power outages in the Greenwood area. The challenge: Inform our families about how this would affect the school schedule.

Principal Joan Gore describes how PCAG went into action Wednesday morning:

Dear Parents,

Thank you all for your patience and flexibility as we faced our first "severe weather" challenge of this school year. I would like to clarify our policy concerning these alerts and how we respond.

Usually, school delays and closings are tied to severe winter weather, snow, ice, etc. In those instances we will follow District 50's lead when deciding to close or delay the opening of school.

When the school has a delayed opening, students should bring their lunch, as no lunch will be served.

Today (Dec. 9, 2009), however, since the school had power, we were spared from any damage, and the weather had cleared, I made the decision not to close but to open at 10:00 a.m. I hope this did not cause too much confusion.

I understand that many areas of Greenwood are still without power and that travel may be hampered due to repair trucks and other factors. Until power is restored and roads are all clear, any "tardies" will be marked as excused. 

Again, thank you for your patience.

Sincerely,

Joan

Behind the scenes on Wednesday morning, administration and parents were hard at work to spread the news and keep families informed.

At 6:58 a.m., the principal sent out a school-wide e-mail alert informing families of the two-hour delay.

Just two minutes later, the principal called to Web site manager to ensure news about the school delay was posted on the site.

Meanwhile, PTA members and parents began making calls on a list of names and numbers to inform parents about the delay. Other parents provided e-mail updates, as well. One parent made sure that one of our newest students was aware of the delay.

As District 50 opted to close for the entire day, another e-mail informed parents that PCAG would stay with the two-hour delay.

Thanks to all those who worked diligently in the early hours of Wednesday, Dec. 9, to inform our parents and students. I know we all appreciate the many efforts to keep the communication lines open. Weather events can be frustrating and difficult for busy parents. So, it’s always good when everyone chips in and helps our school family stay in the loop.

Further plans have been made to include text message alerts for parents who wish to opt in to this offering. Please see TEXT MESSAGES for information.