Inclement Weather Policy

As a residential institution, Skidmore operates on a continuous 24-hour, 12-month basis. There may be occasions, however, when the College suspends some operations due to severe inclement weather or other emergencies.

Decisions for delayed campus openings, early releases, or campus closure due to inclement weather will be made by Human Resources in conjunction with the College administration based on the National Weather Service advisories and/or the State or local police bulletins.

In instances of delayed openings, early releases, or campus closures, only employees essential to the operation of the College will be required to work. As a general guideline, this will include the staff in Campus Safety, Boiler Operations, Grounds and Transportation, and Maintenance. When the students are in residence, the Food Service staff is also designated as essential. This list is not all-inclusive and in the event that other departments are deemed necessary, department directors will notify personnel in those areas.

Campus Closure or Delayed Openings

In the event of campus closure or delayed openings, announcements will be sent to the following media and internal communications:

  • Radio Stations: WFLY-FLY92, WGY-810 WGY, WRVE-The River 99.5, WYJB-B95.5
  • Television Stations: WNYT (13), WRGB (6), WTEN (10), WXXA (Fox23), Capital News 9
  • Newspaper web sites: The Times Union (timesunion.com) and The Post Star (poststar.com)
  • Email message to campus community
  • Voicemail message on Skidmore main number
  • Announcement on Skidmore home page
  • Automated telephone message on 580-SNOW through Campus Safety.

Early Release

In the event of an early release, Human Resources will use the voice mail system to relay information to employees. Employees are required to confirm that they are released from work with their supervisor prior to leaving campus.

Leave Time

In the event the College designates campus closures, late openings or early releases, regular and temporary Faculty, Administrative-Professional Staff, and Support Staff who were scheduled to work will be paid their regular salary or wage. Union employees should refer to their Bargaining Unit Agreement

Other Options

If Skidmore has not officially delayed the opening or closed the campus, but an employee is unable to come to work because of adverse weather conditions or other emergency conditions, the following options are available:

  • The supervisor may allow late arrival or early release not to exceed two hours of paid time for non-union staff.
  • The employee may request time off charged to existing paid leave: absence leave for union staff; personal hours, vacation, or floating holiday for non-union staff.

HR:1200