Schools, Workers Struggle With Cold

By Dan Bewley, The News On 6

TULSA, OK -- Not everyone has the luxury to avoid being outside. Many people have to work in the cold weather and kids have to get to school.

The bitter temperatures make being outside extremely difficult.

Tonight school districts are watching the weather as they decide whether to close schools, while others are bundling up because their job depends on it.

Some have no choice to brave the weather. Others see it as a challenge to stay fit and school kids seem to take it all in stride.

But with possible sub-zero temperatures on the way, school officials have to consider whether classes should be canceled.

Dr. Keith Ballard, Tulsa Schools Superintendent, said, "This is really a difficult decision for superintendents to make."

Dr. Keith Ballard says TPS monitors the weather, the roads, even the wind chill before making a decision.

With our News On 6 WARN Team forecasting overnight temperatures below zero for later this week, TPS as well as Jenks are opening all school buildings a half-hour early, while Union is opening all buildings at 8 a.m.

Dr. Ballard has not decided if school will close but he may have revealed where he's leaning with this comment.

"When I'm on the fence and I'm trying to decide really what should I do I will say to myself, There will have to be a warmer day in May," Ballard said.

The cold weather is to blame for forcing many to work outside. Public works crews are constantly battling the elements.

Mike Strouse, Tulsa Public Works, said, "The wind, it just cuts right through you, anything that's exposed."

It's even tough on us out here covering the story but we take precautions as well.

For example, I'm wearing three layers. I have on a sweater, then two jackets, plus I have on these specially designed snowshoes which are good for about 30-below zero.

Don't forget photojournalist Martha Chambers, she's wearing three layers up top, she's doubling up on the gloves, and then the earmuffs to keep that head warm.

As school kids rush for the warmth of the family van and city workers face the cold head on, winter's grip on Tulsa is hard to escape.

Tulsa Public Schools is asking parents to follow them on Facebook or Twitter for updates about the decision to close its schools.