Bentonville Public Schools will alter their schedule on May 19, dismissing students early in response to an approaching severe weather system. As a precaution, the district announced on Facebook that parents can pick up their children starting at noon, with all absences excused for the day.
Buses will run at 12:30 p.m. for elementary students, followed by middle schools, junior highs, and high schools. High school drivers will be dismissed at 1:00 p.m. Parents are encouraged to track their child’s bus in real-time using the BusCompass app. All evening activities have been canceled to prioritize student safety.
In addition to Bentonville, Gentry Public Schools will release students two hours early, with bus schedules adjusted accordingly. Lincoln Consolidated School District will have a 2 p.m. dismissal to ensure student safety during bus routes. Shiloh Christian will also dismiss early, with various staggered times for different grade levels, and will not offer extended care services for the day.
Siloam Springs School District has announced a two-hour early closure, with specific dismissal times for each school within the district. Furthermore, the University of Arkansas – Fort Smith will close at 1 p.m. that day, canceling all remaining in-person events and activities to ensure the safety of all on campus.
The forecast for May 19 indicates a significant severe weather event impacting both Arkansas and Oklahoma, marking it as a 5NEWS Weather Impact Alert Day. The risk level is at a 4 out of 5, emphasizing the need for these precautions.
The decision by the schools reflects a proactive approach to ensure the safety of students amidst anticipated dangerous weather conditions. Parents and guardians are urged to stay updated on the situation and make necessary arrangements for their children.