Maize was one of the only school districts  in the area to have classes on Monday. Cold weather and icy roads kept many schools, including Wichita Public Schools, closed.

“It’s still ultimately the superintendent’s decision.” Lori Buselt, director of communications said.

Superintendent Doug Powers drove the roads around the district Sunday evening and Monday morning to check conditions. Although, there is no “cut off” temperature, freezing temperatures are put into consideration. Wichita listed “bitterly cold temperatures” as the reason behind its closure on Monday.

Low temperatures can sometimes prevent busses from starting, which was a factor in Maize’s decision to cancel school last month. Transportation crews arrived at the bus barn earlier than usual Monday morning and were able to start the busses. District officials also believed the roads were safe enough for travel.

“The superintendent said himself that if he actually believed the roads were not safe enough for school, he’d make sure it wouldn’t happen,” Buselt said.

District spokesperson Lori Buselt told KAKE News that the district had a 20 percent absentee rate Monday, compared to five percent on most days.