Chicago Schools Cancel Friday Classes Amid Frigid Weather Conditions
Chicago Public Schools (CPS) has canceled classes for Friday due to dangerously frigid weather conditions. This decision affects nearly 200 local districts, all grappling with extreme cold temperatures, as indicated by the National Weather Service (NWS).
Extreme Cold Warning Issued
The NWS has issued an extreme cold warning for Chicago and central Cook County, including areas such as Oak Park, Cicero, and Oak Lawn. The warning is effective from 3 a.m. Friday and lasts until noon. Temperatures are predicted to drop to lows of 9 degrees below zero with wind gusts reaching 30 mph, resulting in wind chills as low as 40 degrees below zero.
School Closure Announcement
CPS informed families late Thursday morning about the closure, citing safety concerns for students and staff traveling to school. Notably, there will be no remote learning offered on this day. In contrast, several suburban districts plan to provide online instruction.
Impact on Extracurricular Activities
All extracurricular events, including sports practices and games, are also canceled for Friday. CPS anticipates resuming regular classes and activities by Monday.
Previous Weather-Related Closures
It is uncommon for CPS to cancel classes. The last instance of such a closure due to bitter cold was recorded on January 16, 2024, when wind chills fell to 30 degrees below zero.
Catholic Schools Joining in Closure
Several Catholic institutions, including St. Ignatius College Prep and St. Matthias Elementary School, have also decided to close. Some schools are opting for remote learning, but the decision ultimately rests with individual institutions. Families are encouraged to check with their specific schools.
Parental Reactions
Parents have expressed relief over the school closures. Nancy Salgado, a CPS parent, highlighted the importance of the decision for students who walk or take public transport. Her daughter, a student at Lake View High School, relies on two buses for her commute. Salgado appreciated the early notification, noting it allows working parents to arrange appropriate care for their children.
- Current Weather Conditions: Wind chills reaching as low as 40 degrees below zero.
- Expected Temperatures: Lows of 9 degrees below zero; highs only reaching zero degrees Friday.
- CPS Closure Date: Cancelled on Friday.
- Last CPS Closure: January 16, 2024.
Families can check for the latest updates regarding school status through emergencyclosingcenter.com, ensuring they stay informed about possible cancellations or remote learning announcements.
