The winter season has officially arrived.

Recent snowstorms have caused the Catasauqua Area School District to tweak its calendar to accommodate school closures due to inclement weather.

Last week district students were required to return from their holiday break Jan. 2 and 3 instead of Jan. 6, as initially planned, due to a snow storm earlier in December. Classes were also canceled last Friday and Tuesday due to snow and frigid temperatures.

According to district Superintendent Robert Spengler, the state school code requires 180 days of instruction for students. In the CASD, there are 182 student and 191 teacher days reserved, which allows for more flexibility.

"Any days beyond this will require attendance after June 10, according to the board [school board] 2013-14 calendar," Spengler recently told The Press in an email. "If excessive snow days occur, we may discuss changes to other student holidays."

Spengler is ultimately tasked with making the final decision concerning taking a snow day. He not only resorts to weather forecasts, but he also evaluates the weather and road conditions himself.

"I check the roads and sidewalks from 3:30 to 5 a.m.," he said. "I also talk with the other Lehigh County superintendents and Mr. [William] Gasper, the facilities supervisor."

Spengler said he does not foresee a change in the high school graduation date, which is typically held the first Monday in June. However, if the district must make up days due to significant cancellations, Spengler said he will discuss changes to the school calendar with the school board and attempt to schedule make up days before graduation.

"I will err on the side of safety and caution when it comes to the welfare of our students," Spengler said regarding any future school closures due to snow.

The school board meeting scheduled for Tuesday evening was also canceled due to the weather.