By Nicole Thomas
Severe weather including strong thunderstorms with the potential of strong winds are expected to move through the Starkville area late this afternoon and evening.
We are monitoring the weather and following announcements from the Oktibbeha County Emergency Management Agency and the National Weather Service.
Be prepared for changes to the school schedule this afternoon. An early or delayed dismissal is possible depending on the location of the storms cells this afternoon.
SOCSD will follow our established emergency weather procedures. We have an enormous responsibility to care for your children, and their safety is our first priority. During severe weather, our schools take every precaution to protect our students, and we do believe our schools provide an extremely safe environment for them during severe weather. However, we understand sometimes parents would prefer their children be at home with them, and you may choose to pick up your children early from school if you like. Most of us are parents, too, and we certainly realize your concerns. You should make the decision that you are most comfortable with, but we do encourage you to pay close attention to the weather as you plan your day, including any warnings that may be issued as a result of the storm.
We remain on alert, and we will continue to be until the threat of severe weather has passed. Any weather notifications will be sent via SchoolMessenger (our mass messaging system). SOCSD will also utilize our text messaging system and social media accounts to provide weather related information. Text stkokt to 95577 to subscribe to our text messaging service. You can also connect with us by liking our FB page at www.facebook.com/StarkvilleSD and following us on Twitter @StarkvilleSD.