(COLORADO SPRINGS) — The Superintendent for Falcon School District 49 (D49) sent a note to families apologizing for his decision not to cancel school during inclement weather.

On Thursday, Jan. 30, a snowstorm hit El Paso County beginning in the overnight hours and continuing into the day. Roads were snow-packed and slick in spots, which usually is cause for canceling or delaying classes in order to keep staff and students safe.

However, that call was not made in D49. Superintendent Peter Hilts said in hindsight, his decision on Thursday not to cancel classes was a mistake.

“In District 49, one person makes the weather call—that’s me,” said Hilts in his letter to parents. “[Thursday] morning, I made a bad call. I apologize for putting our staff, students, and families at risk, and I am sincerely grateful that we made it through the day without injuries or damage.”

Superintendent Hilts said weather calls can be complicated, but as superintendent, it is his responsibility to weigh the factors and prioritize safety.

“I missed the mark today, and I am grateful to everybody who stayed home or drove extra carefully to make up for my misjudgment,” Hilts said. He also expressed his gratitude to the bus drivers and other staff members who “stepped up in the storm to protect our students as much as possible.”

Hilts said he would try to learn from his mistakes, and added that some additional messaging about adjustments to the district’s severe weather protocols would be shared in the near future.

“Thank you for holding us to the highest standards for safety and transparency. For those who overrode my decision and stayed home, I affirm your right to make the decision that matches your priorities. For those who called, messaged, or completed our weather survey, thank you for making sure we heard you loud and clear.”

D49 Superintendent Peter Hilts