Skip to content

BREAKING: New Westminster schools closed Monday in face of extreme heat

With New Westminster facing a record-shattering 42C tomorrow, schools are staying closed for Monday, June 28
Extreme Heat Thermometer
With New Westminster facing a high of 42C tomorrow, School District 40 has announced that schools will be closed on Monday, June 28. A decision about Tuesday will be made on Monday afternoon.

If you'd been wondering whether to send your child to school in New West on Monday, wonder no more: The New Westminster school district has officially closed schools for Monday, June 28.

New West could hit a scorching 42C tomorrow, if the current forecast is accurate.

A letter to parents from superintendent Karim Hachlaf notes the district has chosen to close schools Monday in the face of the "extreme and unusual heat," as other districts around the region are doing.

"This is not a decision we take lightly, as we recognize this is challenging for some families," he said. "But in light of additional considerations about our reduced ability to use fans during COVID, and given mask regulations that would provide an additional layer of heavy discomfort for all, we feel this is the appropriate choice as we strive to keep everyone safe and cool."

Staff will be on hand for the first few hours of the day if parents need to pick anything up from their child's school. If you do, call your school office to arrange a time.

A decision about Tuesday – which would be the final day of classes – will be made on Monday afternoon.

"Thank you for your understanding as we work together to keep everyone safe, hydrated and as cool as possible," Hachlaf said.

Follow Julie MacLellan on Twitter @juliemaclellan.
Email Julie, [email protected].