**Updated 11:06**
The Shawnee Mission School District announced an early release on December 1 due to inclement weather, marking the first time in over a decade that this has occurred.
“The early release is to ensure the safety of our students and staff as they make their way home,” said associate principal Jacob Bauer. “We want to make sure that everyone remains safe.”
To further enhance safety for all drivers, principal Todd Dain implemented a staggered dismissal schedule. Students who take the bus or ride with their parents were dismissed at 1:30 PM, while those who drive themselves were dismissed at 1:40 PM.
“We staggered our release so that everyone can safely get home while it is still light out,” Bauer explained.
In addition to the early release, all after-school and evening activities in the district have been canceled.
Due to the ongoing bad weather, the district will be observing a two-hour delay on Dec. 2 to ensure the safety of its staff and students as they travel to school.
