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As the winter months progress, schools in Maryland and surrounding areas are facing closures and delays due to adverse weather conditions. A recent winter storm has left roadways slick with snow and ice, prompting several school districts to announce modifications to their schedules. If you’re a parent or guardian, it’s essential to stay informed about these changes to ensure the safety of your children.
After a significant snowstorm brought anywhere from 4 to 12 inches of snow earlier this week, temperatures have plummeted to the low 20s, causing lingering icy conditions. With these frigid temperatures persisting, school officials are taking necessary precautions to ensure the safety of students and staff.
On Wednesday, January 8, multiple school districts across Maryland made the decision to close or delay the opening of schools. Here’s a breakdown of the current status for the most affected districts:
- Closed:
- Anne Arundel Community College
- Anne Arundel County Public Schools
- Charles County Public Schools
- Montgomery County Public Schools
- Salisbury University
- Talbot County Public Schools
- Prince George's County Public Schools
- Delayed (2 hours):
- Baltimore County Public Schools
- Carroll County Public Schools
- Howard County Public Schools
- Harford County Public Schools
- Maryland School for the Deaf
The decision for closures and delays was not made lightly. School officials highlighted that many neighborhood roads, walkways, and sidewalks leading to schools remain uncleared, posing potential hazards for students traveling to school. The frozen conditions can lead to black ice, further complicating travel for parents and staff alike.
In addition to school closures, local authorities are urging residents to exercise caution when driving. With icy conditions still affecting roads, it’s important to:
- Drive slowly and be alert for icy patches.
- Keep a safe distance from other vehicles, especially snowplows.
- Travel with a safety kit including blankets, water, warm clothing, and food in case of emergencies.
- Ensure your vehicle’s exhaust pipe is clear of snow to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.
The winter storm has also caused issues for road maintenance crews, with many vehicles left in school parking lots complicating the clearing process. School districts are actively working to resolve these issues to ensure they can safely reopen. Parents are encouraged to move any vehicles that may obstruct snow removal efforts from school grounds.
As conditions in the D.C. area also remain challenging, many school districts are expected to follow suit with similar announcements. If you live in surrounding Virginia areas, here’s a quick overview of local district statuses:
- Virginia School Closings:
- Alexandria City Public Schools - Closed
- Fairfax County Public Schools - Closed
- Stafford County Public Schools - Closed
- Loudoun County Public Schools - Closed
As updates continue to come in, it’s advisable for families to keep an eye on announcements from your respective school districts via their official channels. Ensuring the safety of our students during these unpredictable weather patterns is a shared responsibility, and staying informed is key to navigating these challenges effectively.
In conclusion, winter weather can disrupt our routines significantly, but with proactive measures and clear communication, we can ensure that our students remain safe and informed. Stay warm, stay safe, and check your local news for the latest updates!
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