Kimberly Kopko

Associate Director of Cornell Cooperative Extension

Kimberly Kopko is a Cornell University expert on child development and parenting whose research includes global early childhood education and care as well as how play can enhance learning. She says snow days can give students a chance for fun experiences but can create challenges for working parents and for students who depend on school for structure and meals.

Kopko says: 

“The potential benefits of snow days are that students can use this time for other activities, take a break from academic pressures, and create new memories, like sledding with friends.

“However, snow days also create concerns for working parents and for students who rely on schools not only for academics but for places that provide structure and offer meals.”