When the decision was made on Thursday to close schools for Friday, Jan. 30, Montgomery County Public Schools also shared early guidance about the start of the following week.
“For planning purposes: At this time, MCPS also anticipates a two-hour delay for Monday, February 2,” the school system wrote. Officials noted that this could change depending on continued road clearing efforts and whether students have safe walking routes to school. MCPS said additional updates on Monday’s operational status would be shared on Sunday, February 1 after 4pm.
MCPS also outlined what is required to open schools safely. The district cited the need for bus-accessible roads, pedestrian-safe sidewalks, and school campuses with safe entrances, cleared parking lots, and sidewalks free from ice and snow. While every trace of snow and ice does not need to be removed for schools to operate, MCPS emphasized that safety considerations apply to bus riders, walkers, and student drivers alike. The school system acknowledged that not all county roads are currently clear and that many still need additional attention…