Welcome from the Superintendent


To:  Parents and Guardians

From:   Mark McQueen, Superintendent

Date:    September 12, 2025

 

Hello, Bay District Schools family,

As we enter the heart of hurricane season, I want to take a few minutes to talk about something that is always our top priority: the safety and well-being of our students and staff during storm season.

Our district works hard to keep everyone safe during severe weather, and sometimes that means adjusting our normal operations—closing schools, delaying openings, or dismissing early. These decisions are never taken lightly, and they are always made with safety as the guiding principle.

Hurricanes and tropical storms can be unpredictable. Storm paths shift, intensity changes, and conditions can evolve quickly. Because of this, we may need to make decisions about school schedules on short notice. We understand that this can be inconvenient, and we sincerely appreciate your understanding and flexibility as we navigate these situations.

When making decisions, we rely on information from local emergency management agencies, meteorologists, and other experts. We carefully consider factors such as:

  • The storm’s intensity, projected path, and potential impact on our area

  • The timing of tropical storm conditions and how they affect our morning and afternoon routines

  • Transportation safety for students, staff, and families

  • The effect on students who rely on school meals

If we do need to adjust the school schedule, we will communicate through multiple channels: phone calls, text messages, emails, and updates on our district website. That’s why it’s so important for parents and guardians to keep their contact information current in Parent Portal. With up-to-date information, you will receive notifications directly, and you won’t have to guess or rely on secondhand information.

We know that weather-related schedule changes can disrupt routines, and we genuinely appreciate your cooperation and support. Together, as a community, we can stay resilient and prepared for whatever this hurricane season may bring.

Thank you for trusting us with your children’s education and safety. If you have questions or concerns, please reach out to your school administration or the district office. And together, let’s keep putting the “A” back in Bay. 



Previous Posts

September 12, 2025 

September 2, 2025

August 29, 2025 

August 20, 2025 

August 15, 2025 

Archive of Previous Posts 

 

Location
1311 Balboa Avenue
Panama City, FL 32401
(850) 767-4100
Mark McQueen
Superintendent, Bay District Schools
Office of the Superintendent
Holly Buchanan
Employment and Income Verification Equity Coordinator
buchahd@bay.k12.fl.us
850-767-4100
Public Records Request
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