How NMU considers canceling classes in winter

MARQUETTE — When it comes to canceling classes due to inclement weather NMU considers a few things that may differ from what public school districts consider.

A major difference between NMU and public school districts is the university doesn’t need to consider students waiting in the cold for the bus. However, they do have to look at commuter students and those who may walk some distance through the snow and cold.

“At the end of the day what we’re concerned with is the safety of the faculty, staff and students,” said Mike Bath, Director of Public Safety at NMU. “One thing to keep in mind, too, is that the weather conditions in Marquette could be dramatically different than even Ishpeming, Negaunee, Gwinn, Munising, so we factor all of that into our decision making.”

NMU tracks along with the National Weather Service and tries to make a cancellation decision by 5:30 in the morning to accommodate far flung commuters. For evening classes it aims to make an announcement by 2 p.m.

Sometimes the university remains open despite questionable conditions outside of Marquette.

“If, let’s say, M–28 was closed there’s a provision that you communicate with your faculty, and/or, if you’re a faculty/staff you communicate with your supervisor and let them know that you can’t make it in,” Bath said.

NMU has a page regarding its inclement weather policy.