Inclement Weather Policy

University Delays and Closings

We strive to make sure Coppin State University remains open and holds scheduled classes, but sometimes weather conditions make it difficult or impossible. In the event, there is an update to campus operations, we have protocol for how we decide on changes to campus operations, and how we notify members of the Coppin community.

Who decides campus closing and delays?

First, the Vice President for Administration and Finance (VPAF) contacts the Assistant Vice President (AVP) of Facilities, and also Campus Police, if appropriate. Then, this group talks to determine if campus can safely open and operate for faculty, students, and staff.

After this initial consultation, the VPAF contacts the Provost. Together, the VPAF and Provost call the University President to share relevant information and make a recommendation. The University President makes the final decision to close campus, delay opening, or close early due to poor weather conditions.

After the University President makes a decision, the VPAF notifies 4 people of the decision:

• Director of Communications (by phone)
• AVP of Facilities
• Chief of the University Police Department (by phone or text)
• Network Specialist in ITD

Who does not decide campus closing and delays?

Individual schools, colleges, and departments are not authorized to make their own decisions regarding closings, delayed openings, or cancellation of classes.

Please note: Administrative offices may remain open although classes are canceled.

Who is an essential employee?

Who is considered an essential employee may vary by division. Each Vice President should manage their own list of essential personnel and is responsible for setting expectations for individuals knowing if they are considered essential during an inclement weather event.

Notifying the Campus Community

As soon as the University President makes a decision, authorized Coppin staff take the following steps to notify the university community:

• Posts an alert on the Coppin State University website
• Make a recorded message from ITD available at (410) 951-3000
• Communicate closing announcements through Blackboard Connect, Official Coppin State University Twitter feed, and Official Coppin State University's Facebook page

Official University Messages

When there is a change to normal campus operations due to weather conditions, the University uses specific messages to communicate updated operations. These are the messages and what they mean:

“University is Closed” only essential employees are scheduled to report to work (non-essential personnel will be granted administrative leave)

"Day classes are cancelled.” Offices are open (evening classes will continue unless specified in the announcement). All non-faculty staff are expected to report to work at their regularly scheduled start time (or use annual leave).

"School will open at ______.” Faculty, staff, and students are expected to report by the time indicated in the announcement.

Notifying News and Media

The Director of Communications contacts news and media outlets by 5:30 a.m. if day classes must be canceled. If evening classes and/or events must be canceled, the Director of Communications contacts news and media outlets by 3:30 p.m.

Radio and TV Stations for Media Announcements

Baltimore Metro Area

• WMAR-TV (Channel 2)
• WBAL-TV (Channel 11)
• WBFF-TV (Channel 45)
• WJZ-TV (Channel 13)

Washington D.C. Metro Area

• WTOP Radio (1500 AM)
• WJLA-TV (Channel 7)
• WRC-TV (Channel 4)

Online and Print Publications

• Baltimore Sun
• Washington Post
• Afro News