Weather Delays & Closures

We attempt to announce delays or closures as early as possible. Assume that schools are running on time if there is no notice of delay or cancellation on the district’s website.

Every weather incident is different, and the district may deviate from these procedures if necessary.

The district supports a parent’s or guardian’s decision to not send their child to school or pick their child up early because of weather conditions. Absences will be considered excused with a signed note.

The district will not send students home early due to inclement weather as it cannot be guaranteed students will be able to enter their homes and have supervision.

How To Learn If School Is Delayed Or Closed

Websites - Check www.rsd.edu and individual school websites
Text Alerts (NEW for 2021-22) - The district will send text alerts to parents/guardians as soon as there is a delay or closure decision. Families can receive text alerts by calling their child's school to ensure their correct contact information is updated.
Direct Emails – The district will send emails to parents/guardians as soon as there is a delay or closure decision. Call your child's school to make sure your email address is up-to-date. Community members may also sign up to receive email alerts about delays and closures.
FlashAlert - The FlashAlert system distributes emergency messages and weathers alerts. Sign-up to receive FlashAlert from the Richland School District.
Social Media - Facebook, Twitter & Instagram
News Media – Local television and radio stations frequently run delay and closure announcements

School Delay Procedures

2-Hour Delay

The district may change a 2-hour delay to a cancellation if weather conditions worsen after the initial announcement. If changed, we will notify families as soon as possible.
School buses will begin picking up students two hours later than regularly scheduled.
Breakfast is canceled.
Morning sessions for elementary schools, the Early Learning Center and Tapteal Elementary early learning classes are canceled.

Early Release Days

Tri-Tech Skills Center, Delta High School & Running Start

Students enrolled in Tri-Tech Skills Center should check whether Kennewick School District is on a delayed schedule or has closed to determine whether they have classes at the Tri-Tech campus.
Students enrolled in Delta High School should check whether Pasco School District is on a delayed schedule or has closed to determine whether they have classes.
Students enrolled in Running Start at either Columbia Basin College or Washington State University Tri-Cities should check with those institutions to determine whether their classes on those campuses are canceled.

Athletics, After-School Activities, and Other School Events

Snow Bus Stops and Routes

RSD Snow Routes

Families are advised to check the district’s snow routes, to see if their child’s bus stop may change because of weather conditions. For more information, contact the Transportation Department at (509) 967-6155.

2022-23 Elementary Snow Routes

2022-23 Secondary Snow Routes

Ben Franklin Transit Snow Procedures

Ben Franklin Transit runs school-supportive routes (referred to as “school trippers”) for Richland School District high school students. In snowy or icy conditions, Ben Franklin Transit may adjust routes to ensure the safety of our passengers and employees. Route detours will be announced as soon as possible via the following channels:

Pre-K & Elementary

Middle Schools

High Schools

Choice Schools