Predicting School Closures and Delays for Monday, February 2nd
Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) announced early guidance regarding school operations on Monday, February 2nd, following Friday’s closure on January 30th. The district anticipates a two-hour delay, contingent on continued road clearing efforts and safe routes for students.
MCPS Guidance on Operations for February 2nd
Officials indicated that updates regarding the operational status would be provided on Sunday, February 1st, after 4 PM. For safe school openings, MCPS outlined several conditions that must be met:
- Safe, bus-accessible roads
- Clear and pedestrian-safe sidewalks
- Accessible school campuses with cleared entrances, parking lots, and sidewalks
MCPS emphasized the importance of safety for all students, including bus riders and walkers. Despite current challenges, the district noted that not every trace of snow and ice must be removed for schools to operate.
Regional Comparisons and Predictions
Nearby jurisdictions have adopted varied strategies despite similar weather conditions. On Friday, Frederick County, Carroll County, and Washington, D.C. implemented two-hour delays, whereas surrounding counties such as Howard, Prince George’s, Loudoun, and Fairfax opted for closures.
According to NBC4 meteorologist Amelia Draper, school systems might remain closed into the week due to persistent cold temperatures hindering snow removal efforts. For Monday, the prediction stands at a three-pencil rating, indicating a strong likelihood of a delay, with a reasonable chance of a closure.
Expectations and Safety Considerations
Roads, sidewalks, and school parking lots are expected to remain challenging, making a morning delay more feasible to ensure safety for families navigating their routes. MCPS’s anticipated two-hour delay seems the most likely outcome, although full closure remains a possibility.
No matter the final decision, it is expected to be met with mixed reactions from the community. MCPS and families are encouraged to stay informed as conditions evolve leading into Monday.
