Resident raises concern about uncleared sidewalks and student safety during snow events

A resident used the community forum to tell the Fort Thomas Independent Board of Education that uncleared sidewalks and nearby traffic make walking to school unsafe after snow events and asked whether the district or city clears sidewalks.

"I don't feel safe walking to my car. It concerns me that no action would be taken about it," the resident said, describing sidewalks still uncleared two weeks after a snow event.

Board members and administrators responded that the district's decision-making about cancellations and attendance centers on road conditions and bus operations. The board noted that schools with bus service more often cancel when roads are difficult for buses, and that the district focuses on clearing campus driveways, parking and immediate access to school buildings. Several speakers encouraged families to make safety decisions that reflect individual circumstances.

Administrators suggested the resident take sidewalk-clearance concerns to city council because municipal crews are often responsible for public sidewalks. Staff also said they will continue efforts to clear school-area walkways where feasible and that safety is a paramount concern.

Why it matters: Sidewalk clearance affects how safely students and families can travel to and from school after winter storms; the exchange makes clear some responsibilities lie with the city while the district prioritizes road and campus conditions for decision-making about closures.

Next steps: The board's verbal response indicated no immediate policy change; the resident was advised to contact city council about sidewalk maintenance and to work with district staff if specific campus access points remain hazardous.