We all know the feeling well. It starts to snow outside, and you wait for the call. Will school be canceled? Now, with so many schools meeting virtually, snow days seem to be a little strange. There aren't any buses (or parents) transporting their children to school, so why bother?
A superintendent from West Virginia chose to close schools on December 16 — and, that meant remote learning, as well. That superintendent was Dr. Bondy Shay Gibson, who was likely shocked to see the note go viral. For so many households, having a snow day was a great way to bring some normalcy to an otherwise abnormal year.
Children were urged to spend time with their families. The superintendent suggested kids put a pause on everything else and enjoy their childhood the same way they did a year ago.
"For generations, families have greeted the first snow day of the year with joy," the message read. "It is a time of renewed wonder at all the beautiful things that each season holds. A reminder of how fleeting a childhood can be. An opportunity to make some memories with your family that you hold on to for life."
"For all these reasons and many more, Jefferson County Schools will be completely closed for tomorrow, Dec. 16, in honor of the 1st snow day of the year. Closed for students… closed for virtual… closed for staff," the announcement continued.
"It has been a year of seemingly endless loss and the stress of trying to make up for that loss," said the announcement. "For just a moment, we can all let go of the worry of making up for the many things we missed by making sure this is one thing our kids won't lose this year." Even the way it's written brings comfort.
"So please, enjoy a day of sledding and hot chocolate and cozy fires. Take pictures of your kids in snow hats they will outgrown by next year and read books that you have wanted to lose yourself in, but haven't had the time. We will return to the serious and urgent business of growing up on Thursday, but for tomorrow… go build a snowman," the memo concluded.
The note was short yet sweet — but an incredible reminder that family values are still so important these days. While parents have been trying their hardest to survive this year with so many resources cut, they can often feel overwhelmed and overloaded. Really, this message was for both parents and children. It was a reminder to take a breath.
Many parents have had to learn how to multitask this year. While they're all stronger for it, it's been extremely hard. It's been hard for kids as well, many who thrive on a schedule. With so many changes, it can be tough to stay positive.
Dr. Gibson was once a schoolteacher herself. She reportedly has over two decades of experience in education and human services, and has worked in both primary and secondary schools. She's also an academic, holding both a bachelor of science in psychology from Florida State University, along with a master's degree in special education. With this experience, she has a good idea of what kids truly need in a situation like this.
Her message made things clear: Sure, school could continue, but it doesn't have to. A day with family is a welcome, unexpected break — and perhaps just what kids and parents both need to recharge. If school were in session as it normally would be, it'd have likely been a snow day anyway. Why kill that joy?
The reaction to this letter shows how much that one act of goodwill really means. It's important for other school districts around the world to take notice. Snow days aren't just a way to avoid unneccessary hazards. They're also an incredible opportunity for children to go outside, get some fresh air, and have fun. It's one of the unexpected joys of attending school during the winter.
In writing this, it's truly putting kids first. It's important that everyone in a position of power realizes that as humans, we work best with some time off. It's not showcasing anything about our characters — it's just important, as to not burn out. And, that goes for kids as well.
Even with a vaccine, it's possible that the world will look much different. Many people have proven they can work from home and are happier that way. And, while schools offer such great socialization efforts indoors, it'll be much easier now for students to catch up if they're ever out sick. Snow days may actually go extinct.
It'd be a shame if children never got to have the experiences their parents did, solely because of the way the world has changed. That's why Dr. Gibson's note is even more important. It's a way to preserve something that just months ago was never at risk of being in danger. It's a way for kids to stop worrying about their workload and actually make memories.
The next time you build a snowman, stop and think about Dr. Bondy Shay Gibson. By recognizing the fact that this year has been so tough, she's managed to make families stop and take a deep breath. It's OK to have time off, even if you spend it at home.
