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February has brought snow and frigid temperatures to Delmarva  – weather and wind so bitingly cold that schools are preemptively closing.   In fact, the entire state of Delaware closed schools for Friday February 20th.   Lows down to -2 degrees are hitting the region, and after this week’s snow storm, school districts everywhere are crying “Uncle”.

But in another part of the country, cold has met its match.   In January, the Fairbanks Alaska School District gave notice to parents, students, and Old Man Winter himself that the show will go on.  Check out this image posted to the school’s website and Facebook page:

No, our eyes are not playing tricks on us, and there is no need to check Snopes – the Fairbanks School District’s “Extreme Weather” website writes matter-of-factly:

“Elementary school students go outside for recess, even during the winter months.

Outdoor recess is only cancelled when the temperature reaches -20 °F.

Students need to be prepared with appropriate outdoor clothing so they can take part in outside recess. When it is extremely cold, schools arrange appropriate indoor recess activities to keep students active.”

The page adds:

The school district does not cancel school due to cold weather. School buildings are warm, safe and an ideal place for students to be especially when it is extremely cold. In rare instances, the superintendent may cancel school due to hazardous road conditions.

Parents may, at their discretion, keep their child home during cold weather, but they must notify the school of their intent on the day of the absences. Cold weather nonattendance does not relieve the student of his/her responsibility for making up missed work.

What do you think about braving the cold versus closing schools?   Were school closed when you were a student?  How cold is “too cool for school”?   Share your thoughts with us in the comments… and stay warm!