Canceling Classes and Suspending Operations Due to Inclement Weather

Only the chancellor (or, in the chancellor's absence, the deputy chancellor) has the authority to cancel classes in the event of severe weather. The University maintains its teaching, research and service activities in accordance with established schedules and operational demands.

To this end suspension or cancellation of classes due to inclement weather will be avoided when ever possible. Because certain essential functions of the University must be provided at all times, campus operations will not be suspended in the event of severe weather even though classes may be canceled.

Announcement Regarding Changes in Operations

All announcements of changes in operations will be released by the Chancellor's Office via the MU News Bureau. If classes are canceled, the decision will be communicated through local television and radio stations shortly after 6 a.m.

Procedures to Follow During Severe Weather

The University recognizes that severe weather may affect an employee's ability to travel to and from work. Time missed due to inability to travel to work, late arrival, or early departure occasioned by inclement weather shall be accounted for in accordance with the procedures enumerated below.

Full-Time Permanent Employees:

1. When an employee is delayed or prevented from reporting to work, he or she should make every reasonable effort to notify his or her supervisor/work site as soon as possible in accordance with department procedure.
2. If an employee is delayed, absent or leaving early under this policy, he or she must account for the time missed, with the approval of the supervisor, by one of the following methods:
   • Accrued vacation leave.
   • Accrued personal days.
   • Adjusted work schedule (wherever applicable) in the same work week.
   NOTE: Due to various factors, an adjusted work schedule may not be an available alternative in all situations.
3. Leave without pay (If an employee's work schedule cannot be adjusted or if an employee has insufficient accrued paid leave to cover the period of absence.)

Probationary, Part-Time or Temporary Employees:

• Probationary employees may not use accrued vacation during the first six months of service. To account for time missed, a probationary employee may use an accrued personal day (in accordance with MU Personnel Policy Manual section PE 504), adjust work schedule or take leave without pay.
• Part-time or temporary employees do not accrue vacation or personal days. To account for time missed, a part-time or temporary employee may adjust work schedule or take leave without pay.