School Still Closed Next Week in West Deptford

Despite the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) canceling its annual teachers’ convention, West Deptford schools will remain shuttered Nov. 8-9.

Some school districts are opting to make up days missed by Hurricane Sandy on those days to avoid tacking on time at the end of the school year.

“While we gave serious consideration to having school for our students on those two days, it was not possible due to the fact that our transportation contractor wasn’t able to provide us with enough drivers to cover our routes,” Superintendent Kevin Kitchenman said in a message to parents.

The decision gives West Deptford students an entire week off this coming week, which was planned. The week is marked off as in-service days for staff.

“Our teachers will be working those two days, since they are required to by their contract and the district calendar,” Kitchenman said.

School districts had to scramble this week to make a decision. Some wanted to erase the closure deficit Sandy left behind; others were hesitant to reschedule the days, knowing families plan trips for that time.

Law requires school to be in session 180 days. With the two days off from Sandy, West Deptford students are already facing more time at their desks in June—before a single snowflake has fallen. Last year saw a dearth of the fluffy white stuff, but the area could get hit harder this year with possible above average snowfall.

Gov. Chris Christie had strongly suggested districts go back to school Nov. 8-9 after the NJEA canceled its Atlantic City convention, even hinting he could order schools back in session. 

West Deptford schools are back in session Nov. 12.