As the snow fell all day Wednesday at Canyon High, I heard students asking about the possibility of administrators canceling school today. This morning, as I walked into school at the normal time, the overall tone was one of annoyance, as if it is an inconvenience to come to school in the snow. I’m not saying I’m opposed to a relaxing snow day, but I think students should realize that more goes into deciding to cancel school than just looking outside at the weather. 

Teen Leadership Amarillo & Canyon has given me a new awareness of the process. As a member of TLAC, I was able to participate in a poverty simulation at the Wesley Community Center a couple of months ago. I learned that there are children in our area who do not have a meal to eat or do not have heat unless they come to school. Not only is food and warmth an issue, but parents don’t always have the means to provide child care for their small children who suddenly have the day off from school. How can parents be expected to leave their small child alone and to go to work to be able to pay for necessities and bills?

So, before we all mumble and grumble as we trudge through the snow walking down the breezeway, stop to think about the students who would not have a meal or heat if they had not come to school. Then, realize how incredibly blessed we are to come to a school that can provide those necessities. What may seem an inconvenience to you may be a safe haven for someone else.