SQUAMISH -- Howe Sound School District has followed West Vancouver in planning to close its schools for at least part of the 2010 Winter Olympics, a move criticized by some parents concerned about high-school exams or being burdened with child-care problems just as many are working to ensure the success of the Games.

"Our rationale is that it is going to be less disruptive for kids' education to close schools and make up the time, than trying to keep the schools open," said Dave Walden, the chairman of the district, which covers schools from Squamish to Pemberton, including Whistler. He said board members believed that just 25 to 50 per cent of pupils would show up for high-school classes while the Olympics were on if they were kept open.

"And feedback from our survey very strongly indicated that parents didn't want different time off for high schools and elementary schools," he said…. Nor is there a plan to rent out elementary schools. Elementary-school pupils in Squamish, Pemberton and Whistler will have just the second week of the Olympics off, from Feb. 22 to 26. Mr. Walden explained that spring break in 2010 had been moved forward by several weeks to take advantage of the Games. It would also ensure that elementary-age children do not lose school time.

Laura Godfrey, the chairwoman of the Parent Advisory Committee for Garibaldi Highlands Elementary in Squamish, said she would have preferred to see the school district's decision come with clear measures in place to deal with problems arising from the closings.

"My concern with the school board announcement is that we are left wondering if things will be put in place to take care of the younger kids who need it," she said. … adding that hundreds of children might need alternative daycare because they won't be in school.

Mr. Walden said the next step will be to look at laying on facilities for children during the Games. However, the school district is under no obligation to provide child care and it would be ultimately up to parents to come to their own arrangements, he added….