Superintendents said they simply can't predict how snowy and icy roads will be throughout the day, but if things look bad in the early morning, it's best to cancel and be safe rather than sorry.

They said they have to make school closing calls early.

"At that time, it was snowing very hard and it looked bad and I knew the back roads were bad," said Kirk Glasgow, Union Local School District superintendent.

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But some parents see things differently and said canceling school on a day like Thursday wasn't necessary.

"A two-hour delay would have been just fine," said Justin Haught, of Belmont County.

Glasgow said he doesn't have a crystal ball that can predict the weather for him; he turns to other weather sources and uses his best judgment to keep students safe.

"I'd rather err on the side of caution than have a bus full of kids over the hill," Glasgow said.

Other parents said they're not only concerned about canceling school, but if their children will have to make up snow days over their summer vacation.

Stay with NEWS9 and WTOV9.com for continuing coverage.

Previous Stories: January 12, 2010: Many Ohio Valley Students Might Have To Make Up Snow Days January 11, 2010: Schools Explain Various Reasons For Delaying Classes December 22, 2009: Snowbird School Cancellations Can Be Tough Call