UPTON, Mass. - There were plenty of weather delays Monday morning for students heading to school, but in the Blackstone Valley Regional Vocational School District, snow days are few and far between.

Superintendent Michael Fitzpatrick said instead of canceling school because of weather, students learn remotely. It began during the pandemic and has worked out well for students and teachers since. Students are given laptops and teachers are trained on the technology.

Fitzpatrick said the winter months are especially important for teaching because students use that time to prepare for MCAS.

"Teachers have given us very positive feedback,” he said. “The parents appreciate it. It's a healthier home environment when learning is continuing to take place as opposed to staying in your pajamas watching TV or whatever else.

“There are rules in the sense that students are expected to check in, they can’t just hide. They are actively involved, they are graded, so it has accountability it has transparency within it.”

The district can use four remote days each school year, and they've used just one so far this winter. The district can offer remote days because they surpass the minimum number of days needed in a school year.