Parents Relieved After Middletown Cancels School Monday

After it was first announced that classes would be held on Monday, Middletown Public Schools are closed today.  Parents received the closure announcement this morning. 

On Sunday night, Middletown Superintendent Rosemarie Kraeger said Middletown Public Schools will hold classes on Monday.

"We have received clearance that roads are cleared and safe," said Kraeger Sunday night. "Buses will need to drive slowly. Caution at bus stops is important. Parents always have the choice to keep their children home or drive their children to school. We will be lenient on tardy and absences, respecting parent choice," she said.

After Patch announced that schools would be open, many parents expressed concern about the safety of the children, citing the poor conditions of the roads and snow banks that would force them to wait for the bus on the street. 

On Sunday, most Rhode Island districts reported they were closed Monday, including Newport. 

Although parents express relief, some ask why it wasn't cancelled earlier.

"[They] should have cancelled it last night along with Newport," said Lindsey Pribula on Middletown Patch Facebook page. 

After the school announced the closure, there was a outcry on the Middletown Patch Facebook page and to this article.  Here were some initial comments:

Karen Smith Biastre So many side roads, mine included, have not been plowed. I hope they close schools...it's still dangerous out there and there are no places for kids to stand at their bus stops.

Paul Theriault disappointing... where are the kids going to wait for the bus? there is no place to stand safely on the side of the road! Not to mention.. once the rain starts tomorrow.. everything is going to be a big mess!

Shannon NayNay Gray As a parent and an educator I just feel like superintendents have a no win decision to make here.