Montgomery County Public Schools finds itself navigating a challenging situation as officials weigh whether to proceed with the anticipated two-hour delay for Monday, Feb. 2, or extend the closure that kept students home Friday. The decision comes as winter weather continues to create hazardous conditions throughout the region, with roads, sidewalks and school parking lots still presenting safety concerns.
When administrators announced the closure for Friday, Jan. 30, they also provided early guidance about the following week’s start. School system officials noted the plan could change depending on road clearing progress and whether students would have safe walking routes to reach their buildings. MCPS promised additional updates on Sunday, Feb. 1, after 4 p.m.
1. Safety requirements create high bar
MCPS outlined specific criteria required to open schools safely, emphasizing the need for bus-accessible roads, pedestrian-safe sidewalks and school campuses with clear entrances and parking lots free from ice and snow. While every trace of winter precipitation does not need complete removal for schools to operate, safety considerations apply equally to bus riders, walkers and student drivers.
The school system acknowledged that not all county roads currently meet acceptable standards and many still require additional attention from clearing crews…