In An Emergency

In past years, the Saratoga Union School District has had emergency closing of schools due to unsafe conditions. We want to remind you of our procedure for the Emergency Closing of Schools. 

Every effort will be made to keep schools open. The following criteria will be used in determining if a site should be closed:

  1. There is a safety issue (i.e., no alarm system, power lines down, flooding).
  2. The school is not operational; conditions exist which are not conducive to learning(i.e., lack of heat, lights or water). If possible school will be held for at least a minimum day schedule.
  3. Staff and/or students cannot get to school sites.
  4. The school is needed for an emergency center by the City or Red Cross.

We will always make the best decision possible with the information available. As soon as we know there is a problem, we begin an analysis of the situation with the District Maintenance Director, Principals, School Board, other local school districts, City and County emergency groups, P.G.&E. or appropriate service vendors to determine severity of problems, advisories, estimated time of repair or changing conditions. This analysis begins as early as possible, sometimes during the night. We target our decisions for 6:45 - 7:15 a.m. using the best data available at that time. Our decision is based on the safety of students. After we decide to hold school half-day or close school, we alert you through the emergency automated messenger system, radio messages, and signs at the school.

Parents/Guardians: please ensure that your most up-to-date phone contact information is listed on your child's green emergency information card under "24 Hour Phone."  This number is used by our automated phone messenger system in event of an emergency.  The form was sent out prior to the start of school.   To verify your number or to make changes, contact your school office.

You may listen for current information on:

  • KGO RADIO 810 AM
  • KCBS RADIO 740 AM
  • KTVU-TV CHANNEL 2
  • KRON-TV CHANNEL 4
  • KNTV-TV CHANNEL 11

Each school and classroom also has a phone tree for non-emergencies or issues pertaining to just a few classes.

If the county declares a state of emergency, our schools receive full funding for a closed day of school. If the emergency is local, or at one site only, we receive funding if school is in session half-day.

Emergency / Disaster Preparedness Planning Guide


If you would like to help at your child's school, please contact your Principal. The district appreciates constructive evaluation of our decisions and procedures. If you have any questions or comments, please call your Principal or Lane Weiss, Superintendent, at (408) 867-3424, ext. 502.

 
Saratoga Union School District
20460 Forrest Hills Drive, Saratoga, CA 95070
Phone: (408)867-3424 ~ FAX: (408)867-2312