Anchorage School Team Determines Snow Day Decisions
The Anchorage School District is dedicated to ensuring safe transportation for its students. This responsibility falls largely on Heather Philp, the district’s transportation director, who plays a critical role in determining school day decisions during inclement weather. Her assessments are crucial for the safety of more than 22,000 children who rely on school buses to travel to nearly 8,000 bus stops across the city.
Assessing Road Conditions for Snow Day Decisions
On December 5, 2025, at approximately 3 a.m., Heather Philp evaluated road conditions on the Anchorage Hillside, specifically at a notorious area known as “Dead Man’s Curve.” Philp, who began her career as a school bus driver, reported that road conditions were favorable. “It’s 28 degrees right now, which is below freezing, and the roads have great grip,” she noted after her drive.
Preliminary Evaluations and Team Coordination
Philp and a team of about a dozen employees commenced their evaluations around 2:30 a.m. Their work involved gauging temperature, snow depth, and road traction on critical routes like O’Malley Road and DeArmoun Road. This thorough assessment influenced the district’s decision-making regarding school closures. Earlier that week, two closures had already occurred due to hazardous conditions.
- Team conducted evaluations on December 5 at 3 a.m.
- Took note of temperature and snow conditions throughout the season.
- Two school closures took place earlier that week.
While there was a hope for safe travel on that Friday, with light snow adding traction to icy roads, students were not granted an additional snow day. Philp expressed understanding of student disappointment, acknowledging the popularity of snow days among children.
Collaboration with City Services
Philp’s preparation included communication with the National Weather Service to stay informed of forecasts. During her assessments, she also coordinated with municipal road crews for road treatment. “When I call and say we need sand somewhere, they’re on it,” Philp remarked, highlighting the swift action of local road crews to ensure the safety of bus routes.
Challenges of Decision-Making
Deciding when to close schools is a complex process influenced by various factors. Philp emphasized that conditions change rapidly: “Predictions are predictions; they’re not guarantees.” In a recent incident, misjudged weather conditions led to a last-minute closure after buses faced icy roads that were initially thought to be clear.
Some parents expressed concern about the school closures, feeling that the roads were safe enough for travel. Simultaneously, others believed conditions were dangerously slippery. This divide illustrates the challenges Philp faces as she balances safety and community sentiment.
Historical Insights and Modern Practices
Philp’s experience includes both driving and training school bus drivers. This background informs her understanding of hazardous road conditions, especially in the context of changing weather patterns. Philp noted that historically, wintry conditions used to be predictable, while today’s warm winters bring new challenges of freezing rain, complicating safe travel.
Each morning, she not only checks the roadways but also assesses the sidewalks used by students. “It’s about the kids,” Philp stated, reiterating her commitment to keeping all children safe, regardless of their mode of transportation.
Conclusion: Safety Above All
After compiling the necessary road condition data, Philp often returns to her office to document findings and make informed decisions. The importance of her role cannot be understated, as timely and accurate assessments directly affect the daily lives of thousands of families in Anchorage.
In the wake of unpredictable weather trends, her dedication remains unwavering—ensuring that every decision prioritizes the safety and well-being of the students she serves.
