Inclement Weather FAQs
General
Why is the campus being closed due to inclement weather?
The primary reason why the campus may be closed is for safety. Closing the campus
reduces the number of employees and students on the roads during periods of weather
when it may not be safe to travel, especially longer distances. Closing the campus
also allows the University to clear roads, parking lots and sidewalks without working
around cars.
Who determines when inclement weather is declared for WSU?
The President and his designee(s) determine inclement weather closures. These decisions
are frequently made in consultation with the Provost and Vice President for Finance
and Administration.
University and ICAA Employees
Does my position support critical campus operations?
Employees in the following positions support critical campus operations:
- Student Housing;
- Dining options (may reduce business hours as needed);
- Campus Police;
- Facilities Services;
- Research laboratories (at faculty discretion);
- Student Wellness (may reduce business hours as needed); and
- as otherwise designated by the President, Athletic Director, or any Vice President. You should contact your direct supervisor if you have any questions as it relates to campus operations.
If my position supports critical campus operations, what if I don’t feel safe traveling
to campus?
If your position has been deemed to support critical campus operations and you don’t
feel you can safely report to work, you should contact your direct supervisor to discuss
the concerns and to determine if an accommodation can be made.
How long will the University be closed in the event of inclement weather or emergency?
The time frame for closure is determined on a case-by-case basis and can range from
an hour's delay of the start of the workday, to early closure, to an entire day, or
multiple days. Always monitor University announcements on WSU Today and stay in communication
with your supervisor.
Will I receive additional pay if I support critical campus operations and report to
campus to perform work during inclement weather?
You should consult the University’s Timekeeping Reference Guide for more information regarding pay for leave and time worked during inclement weather.
Students
Can classes be held remotely during an inclement weather shutdown?
Faculty and Instructors are encouraged to make every effort to hold class remotely
and communicate that decision via their course syllabus, WSU email or Blackboard to
students. If an instructor cancels class, they are asked to immediately communicate
with students.
I’m a student living in campus housing. Will Shocker Hall dining services continue
to operate?
WSU’s Housing and Residence Life will remain open. Students who live in campus housing
should visit the Dining Services website for available services and hours. https://www.wichita.edu/student_life/housing/Diningservices.php
I’m a student employee. How does the inclement weather affect me?
Students who are employed by WSU should review the Employee FAQs above.
Who to Contact
HR Total Rewards Team
TotalRewards@wichita.edu
Updated: 01/08/2024 NH