Dear Lord Aylmer Families,
As we transition into the spring season, we want to ensure our community moves forward with a shared understanding of our updated outdoor procedures. We are sending this special update to provide clarity and foster collaboration as we embrace the “Rainy Day Adventures” ahead.
As previously communicated in our community update on April 24, 2026, and through our weekly newsletters, all of which are archived and can be found on the Lord Aylmer Website, our school has transitioned to a “prepared for the elements” framework. Yesterday evening, the Lord Aylmer Governing Board officially endorsed and approved the Lord Aylmer Inclement Weather & Outdoor Learning Policy addendum.
Our Philosophy: The “Whole Child” Approach
Lord Aylmer is committed to recognizing that outdoor play is essential for physical health, sensory regulation, and cognitive development. By shifting our mindset, we help students foster resilience and environmental stewardship. Natural environments also provide a sensory “reset,” which has been shown to reduce classroom behavioral incidents.
Guidelines for Outdoor Play
Our students will continue to participate in outdoor recess and learning during the Fall and Spring months under the following conditions:
- Weather Standards: Outdoor activity will proceed as scheduled during light to moderate rain.
- Temperature Variance: If rain is accompanied by temperatures below 5 degrees, outdoor duration may be modified to prevent cold-related discomfort.
- Indoor Exceptions: Recess and learning will move indoors only in the event of lightning, thunder, high-wind advisories, or torrential downpours that pose a safety risk or compromise visibility.
- Final Determination: The principal (or designate) will make the final determination on indoor recess 15 minutes prior to the bell, based on local radar.
Student Readiness and Equipment
To ensure your child remains comfortable and dry, we ask that you provide the following “Active Weather” gear:
- Primary Layer: A water-resistant or waterproof outer shell (jacket with a hood).
- Footwear: Rubber boots or treated waterproof hiking shoes.
- Required Support Gear: A complete change of clothes (socks, underwear, pants, and shirt) to be kept in the student’s locker in a sealed, labeled bag.
- Umbrellas: These are permitted for transit, stationary learning, and recess, provided the student can operate them safely and independently.
Our Commitment to Support
Our staff is dedicated to managing these transitions with care:
- Supervision: Staff will monitor students for signs of excessive dampness or chilling.
- Transition Time: A 5-minute “transition window” will be provided following rainy recesses to allow students to change into dry clothing.
- Equitable Access: The school maintains a small inventory of “loaner” gear for families experiencing financial hardship to ensure every student can participate.
We have attached the full policy addendum for your reference. Thank you for your continued support as we help our students build independence and creativity through these outdoor experiences.
Sam Halpin, Hannah Patrick, and The L.A. Staff
