Andover Superintendent Asks Parents To Drive Kids To, From School Fri.

ANDOVER, MA — With Friday temperatures expected to drop into the single digits and the wind chill making it feel as cold as minus 20 degrees, Andover Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Magda Parvey is reminding parents and guardians to take proper steps to keep their children safe.

In a letter posted on the APS website, Parvey said the district is encouraging families to transport their children to and from school. Families unable to drive their children should consider carpooling, Parvey said.

Parvey reminded residents of the drop-off times in the district: high school is 7:45 a.m., middle school is 8:05 a.m., elementary school is 8:45 a.m., and preschool is 8:50 a.m. However, the superintendent said getting to school safely is more important than getting there on time Friday.

"We have been in contact with the schools, and students will not be marked late due to delayed arrival," Parvey said.

The superintendent also noted that the cold weather could affect bus engines, making buses run slower.

"To be proactive, our bus companies have called in extra early-morning staff to prepare buses and get them warmed up in an effort to provide service for our students," Parvey said. "(Bus) drivers have been asked to pick up any students they see walking to school."

Parvey added: "We ask all families to please plan accordingly, use caution, and dress students properly for this extreme weather."