School Orientations for Sixth, Ninth Graders Postponed Due to Irene

Greenwich announced today that the school orientations for sixth and ninth graders scheduled for tomorrow, August 31, have been postponed, due to the high number of road closures and downed power lines in town caused by Hurricane Irene.

In addition school officials have hinted at a possible delayed opening for the public schools on Sept. 1.

“Due to , including closures as a result of downed trees and loose and fallen wires, many of the bus routes are not accessible and we are unable to provide the transportation necessary to hold the sixth and ninth grade orientations tomorrow,” Lulow said in an announcement distributed via email and the town’s automated phone alert system Tuesday afternoon. “Therefore, orientation for sixth and ninth grade students is cancelled for Wednesday, August 31, 2011.”

Lulow said the school district would decide on new dates for the sixth and ninth grade orientations by 5 p.m. Wednesday and would notify all parents and school staff.

Meanwhile all other staff and student activities planned for August 31 will continue as scheduled. Greenwich High School sports practices are reportedly on schedule (check with respective organizations and departments for field closings), as are all elementary school activities that do not require bus transportation.

Lulow also indicated that the school district is considering a delayed start to the school year. That decision will be made by 5 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 31, and parents and staff will be notified.

Parents and staff are advised to check the Greenwich Public Schools website for updates on possible school closings, as well as for information on when the orientations will be rescheduled.