Throughout the school year, school activities and events may be impacted by weather or environmental conditions. Precautions are in place to help keep students and staff safe during these times.
Learn how you can be prepared for these extreme conditions.
Air Quality Alerts at the CBE
During smoky conditions, schools use the Environment Canada air quality health index (AQHI) to determine when to reconsider outdoor activities and implement other measures to support the health and safety of students and staff. The provincial government also reports the AQHI by community.
In accordance with the index, if the Air Quality Health Index remains at 7 or above, schools are asked to consider postponing or cancelling outside activities during lunch and recess or limit the level of exertion if outside activities proceed. At that level, Alberta Health Services recommends reducing outdoor physical activity to decrease the inhalation of airborne pollutants, as individuals may experience temporary irritation of eyes and throat and possibly shortness of breath.
Recommended Restrictions for Outdoor Activities Related to Air Quality
Air Quality Health Index | CBE Response |
1-3 | Continue as normal. |
4-6 | Consider restricting level of activities. Reduce the intensity and duration of any strenuous activities. Provide resting periods. Consider indoor recess for students with health issues that may be impacted by air quality. |
7-10 | Reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors. Consider indoor recess and lunch supervision for all students. |
Above 10 | Avoid strenuous activities outdoors. Consider indoor recess and lunch supervision for all students. |
Monitoring Indoor Air Quality in Schools
Schools also work closely with their facility operator to monitor the air quality conditions in their buildings. Facility operators are in the best position to monitor and manage school ventilation systems and have access to central resources should any issues be identified. They are able to adjust centrally automated heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) to minimize fresh air exchange until the air quality advisory is lifted.
For schools with HVAC systems that are not centrally controlled, facility operators will manually adjust the system to minimize fresh air exchange. Please note that CBE facility operators are qualified 5th Class Power Engineers and are well trained in the operation of the school building systems.
We know these types of conditions impact every family differently. If you decide your child will not be attending classes, please contact your school's attendance line to report the absence.
How CBE Responds to Winter Weather
Calgary's weather can include snow, cold temperatures and wind chill, making getting to and from school challenging. Families are reminded that extra caution should be taken during the winter months and periods of extreme weather.
CBE Schools Rarely Close Due to Snow or Cold Temperatures
Even with adverse weather conditions, assume that schools are open unless you hear otherwise from your school. CBE schools remain open to provide a safe, warm and secure environment for students.
Information regarding any school closures due to weather will be posted promptly on the CBE website and social media, and shared with local news media.
Outdoor Breaks at School
We recognize the value of outdoor breaks such as recess and lunch during the school day, however, when the weather is cold, outdoor breaks may not be a viable option.
When temperatures reach -20°C or colder including the wind-chill factor, it is recommended that students be kept inside for recess or lunch breaks. This temperature is provided as a guideline and may be adjusted for the school / activity.
Report Student Absences
We respect the right of parents/guardians to make their own decisions about sending their children to school. If your child will not be attending classes, please contact your school's attendance line to report the absence.
Using Transportation
Families should be prepared for transportation delays and should check the status of their bus in the morning. You can find more information, including criteria to determine if buses are cancelled, online.
Off-Site Activities
When temperatures reach below -25°C including the wind-chill factor, it is recommended that any outdoor-based, off-site activities be postponed or cancelled. Indoor-based activities may proceed at the school’s discretion.
A school may choose to postpone or cancel at a warmer temperature depending on the activity or age of the students. Other factors such as snowfall accumulation, weather events and road conditions may also be considered.
Snow Removal at CBE Schools
CBE grounds crews work hard to remove snow and ice throughout the winter months. First priority is given to snow clearing and sanding of perimeter sidewalks adjacent to school property, as well as handicap bus drop-off areas and other related accessibility zones. It can take up to 48 hours for this clearing to be completed following a snow event. Second priority is given to snow clearing of asphalt playground compounds at elementary schools.
School parking lots are not plowed on regular basis. Should heavy snowfall cause driveway entrances or lots to become impassable, grounds crews will provide access as quickly as resources permit.
Last modified: 2026-06-24 18:37:13.359538 +0000 UTC