The Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) has announced that all public schools will be closed on Thursday, February 6, due to the impending winter storm expected to create hazardous travel conditions. The National Weather Service has issued a Winter Weather Advisory, predicting sleet, snow, and ice accumulation throughout the region.
What’s Closed and Canceled?
All HCPSS schools will be closed for the day, and all after-school and evening activities, including community-sponsored events in school buildings, have been cancelled. School officials have decided to prioritize student and staff safety as icy conditions are expected to make travel difficult, particularly during the morning commute.
Delayed Office Openings and Staff Guidelines
Although schools will be closed, HCPSS offices will operate on a delayed opening schedule. Here’s how different employee groups are affected:
- Administrative staff and 12-month employees may report up to 90 minutes later than usual or take liberal leave if needed.
- Emergency personnel are expected to report as directed by their supervisors.
- 10- and 11-month employees, including teachers and food/nutrition staff, are not required to report to work.
- Employees who telework will work their regular hours without delay unless otherwise instructed.
Staff members have been advised to check their specific reporting instructions through official HCPSS communications.
Hazardous Weather Conditions Expected
The National Weather Service has warned of mixed precipitation overnight, with up to an inch of sleet and up to one-tenth of an inch of ice expected by Thursday morning. Icy roads, particularly on bridges and overpasses, are likely to create dangerous driving conditions. Residents are urged to slow down and exercise caution if travel is necessary.
Temperatures are expected to remain low throughout the day, increasing the risk of ice lingering on roadways well beyond the morning commute.
How to Stay Updated
HCPSS will provide real-time updates through multiple channels:
- Status Website: Visit status.hcpss.org for live updates on school operations.
- Information Hotline: Dial 410-313-6666 for recorded messages.
- Email and Text Alerts: Parents will automatically receive email notifications, and they can opt-in for text updates.
- Twitter: Follow @hcpss for immediate announcements.
HCPSS officials advise parents and guardians to check these platforms regularly and ensure that their contact information is up to date.
Final Reminder
Parents should prepare for school closures and schedule adjustments. With more wintry weather forecast in the coming days, additional disruptions are possible. Stay tuned for further announcements.
