Hello MPS Families, Winter is approaching and cold weather is on its way! To help everyone be ready, the week of November 18–22 has been declared Winter Weather Awareness Week in Wisconsin by Governor Tony Evers. MPS is already preparing for winter and possible closures due to weather. We want to share important reminders about how to stay informed and how to be ready for snow and cold. New this year—MPS has launched a page on our website with important tips and information, including how the decision to close schools is made. Find it at mpsmke.com/weather. When severe weather hits, any decision to close schools will be posted on the MPS website, X and Facebook pages, and on all major television and news stations. Please do not assume that schools are closed because the weather looks bad in your area. Staff and families can opt in to receive texts from the district, including weather closures. To receive text messages, text the message “Y” or “Yes” to 67587. This can be done with any mobile phone. Parents/guardians who feel that they cannot get their children to school safely due to weather have the option to keep children home. Please remember to contact your child’s school and report their absence. This will help keep your child’s attendance record up to date. When MPS schools are closed, all afternoon and evening programs, sports, events, and extracurricular activities are also cancelled. In addition, we want to offer some tips to help make sure students are safe during winter weather. Please update your contact information at your child’s school to make sure you receive all messages and can be reached in an emergency. Be sure your child has warm clothing—jacket, boots, cap, mittens, and if possible, snow pants and a scarf. Dressing in layers, including underclothing like a t-shirt or long underwear, is recommended for children walking to school or waiting at a bus stop. If your child needs winter items, please talk to the parent coordinator or social worker at your child’s school. Even if your child is dropped off by car, please be sure they have winter items for recess or in case of an emergency. The safety of students and staff is one of our top priorities. Thank you for being prepared for our Wisconsin winter!