This winter, Olathe Public Schools is introducing a new two-hour delayed start option to address inclement weather. On days the option is implemented, instead of completely canceling school, it will be put off until conditions resolve or improve. 

Classes would be 33-35 minutes, and the fourth period would be 45 minutes due to lunch. School’s end time and afternoon bus routes will be unaffected. This option removes the all-or-nothing approach and adds more flexibility during inclement weather. 

  All Kansas schools are required to have 1,116 hours of instructional time. In the fourth quarter of the 2023-2024 school year, all Olathe Public High Schools extended their start time by 10 minutes to make up for lost days because of inclement weather. The new two-hour delay can prevent the need to make up lost time. 

The new option addresses feedback that has come from the community for an adjustable option compared to an all-or-nothing option. 

“It can be a good thing as an option when we have a really cold morning, especially when we run out of our regular snow days.” Admin Kamiel Zimmerman said.

Though some may like the new option, some do not.

     “I think it will make me not enjoy school as much, the snow isn’t gonna melt in 2 hours. I’m probably going to be late on the days we have the 2-hour delay.” Sophomore Mayah Thompson said. 

All inclement weather decisions, including the 2-hour delay option, will be made by 6 a.m. Some have expressed concern about whether this is soon enough for those who live farther away. Interior Design & Fashion teacher, Ms. Gillaspie lives 45 minutes away from Olathe North. 

“I like snow days, but realistically speaking it makes sense. Most of the time streets have been cleared and enough traffic has passed by. Ultimately for me no, the time of the announcement won’t affect me. ” Said Gillaspie.