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NJ School District Keeps Snow Days at a Minimum

NEW YORK (WCBS 880) - School closings for snow days are fun for kids, but disruptive to learning.

Hasbrouck Heights School District is staying away from snow days and WCBS 880 Reporter Levon Putney finds out how.

Three or four snow days is the norm for school districts around the area, but in Hasbrouck Heights their aim is for lower numbers.

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WCBS 880 Reporter Levon Putney finds out how Hasbrouck Heights keeps kids in school

"I know many school districts have gone to three or four snow days and the goal is to try not using them, and you use the left over days at key points maybe as a way to extend Memorial Day weekend," said Superintendent Mark Porto.

Porto explained they are trying to use more delayed openings.

"As a means by which you have maybe two hours to clean the snow," said Porto.

That way kids can get in a full state approved day of classes. Besides, he says it helps parents who might have a tough time finding last-minute daycare.

"You know, parents are working and it's rare when businesses are shut down," said Porto.

Porto credits better weather reports now that are a big help. On Friday, the school opted for a two-hour delayed opening since the forecast said snow would end by morning.

"Sure enough, we're standing here, it's a beautiful sunny day and it was the right move," said Porto.

They still have only used one of three snow days this year.

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