Advisory for Cold Weather

During the winter months cold temperatures, wind chill and snow can make getting to and from school challenging.

Our school and other CBE schools rarely close due to snow or cold weather. Assume we are open unless you hear otherwise from us. Information regarding any school closures due to weather will also be posted on the CBE website, on CBE’s social media channels and shared with local news media.

If your child will not be attending classes please ensure you contact the school attendance line to report the absence.

During the winter season we remind parents/guardians of the following:

  • Children should be well prepared for the weather and not left unattended at bus stops for any period of time, under any circumstances.
  • Families should ensure that they have back-up care arrangements if transportation is delayed. Children should have a warm place to stay before and after school (i.e. with a neighbour or a nearby relative).
  • All CBE schools will remain open to provide a safe, warm and secure environment for students

Learn more about Using Transportation in Cold Weather and Winter Weather.

Current Calgary Weather

The Calgary weather forecast that appears on our website is provided by Environment Canada through one of its two Calgary weather stations, and is not school specific.

The CBE has standardized the weather to use Environment Canada to create continuity for parents, employees and schools. We know that temperatures can fluctuate around our city and we want to ensure that we are all accessing and viewing the same information.

Guidelines are provided for students and cold weather, but if circumstances change, the principal has the final decision. ​​


Dressing for Winter Weather

As winter weather approaches, it’s essential for students to come to school dressed appropriately for outdoor activities. Calgary winters can be cold and snowy, and students will continue to go outside for recess and other activities unless the temperature, including wind chill, drops below -20°C, as per Calgary Board of Education policy.

Please ensure your child is prepared with the following:

  • Winter Coat: Warm, insulated, and ideally waterproof to protect against snow and cold winds.
  • Snow Pants: To keep legs warm and dry during outdoor play.
  • Accessories: Hats, gloves or mittens, scarves, and thermal socks to protect exposed skin and extremities.
  • Winter Boots: Insulated, waterproof boots with good traction to keep feet warm and safe on snowy or icy surfaces.

Layering is highly effective in keeping children warm. A moisture-wicking base layer, insulating middle layer, and waterproof outer layer provide the best protection and comfort. Please also label all clothing with your child’s name to avoid items being misplaced.


Extreme Cold Policy

When outdoor temperatures drop below -20°C with wind chill, outdoor recess and activities will be canceled, and students will remain indoors for their safety. Environment Canada weather reports and direct observation will guide these decisions. On such days, the following procedures will be in place:

  • Indoor Supervision: Students will remain indoors during recess and other outdoor activity times.
  • Locked Exterior Doors: Except for the main office entrance, exterior doors will remain locked during the day for safety. If arriving after 8:35 AM, please accompany your child to the office entrance.

To support smooth arrivals during the winter, please ensure your child does not arrive at school before the soft entry welcome starting at 8:35 AM. Thank you for helping us ensure all students are safe, warm, and prepared to enjoy their school day.