Fairfax County Public Schools (FCPS) is set to close its doors early due to the imminent winter storm expected to hit the region on February 11, 2025. The decision, announced on Monday evening, reflects the school administration’s proactive measures amid weather warnings.
According to the National Weather Service, Northern Virginia, Maryland, and Washington D.C. are under a winter storm warning effective from 1 p.m. Tuesday through 7 a.m. Wednesday. FCPS announced it would enact a three-hour early dismissal for all its schools.
The early closure includes the cancellation of morning and afternoon preschool special education classes, impacting many families who rely on these services. Full-day preschool (special education), as well as Family and Early Childhood Education Program/Head Start classes, will also dismiss three hours earlier than usual. This adjustment is aimed at ensuring the safety of students and their families amid hazardous road conditions expected during the storm.
Families are advised to pick up their children as soon as possible, with the Department of Neighborhood and Community Services (NCS) emphasizing the importance of safety during the potentially dangerous driving conditions. Notably, all late buses will not operate on this day, which adds to the urgency for parents to arrange for early pickups.
Extracurricular activities, team practices, field trips, and other programs scheduled for Tuesday are canceled due to the anticipated adverse weather. The decision affects not just elementary and middle schools, but includes high schools and other educational facilities managed by FCPS.
Fairfax County is not alone; numerous school districts across the region are making similar alterations. Other affected schools include Arlington County Public Schools, which announced they will also close two hours early, and other nearby counties, such as Loudoun and Prince William, which have implemented early dismissals as well.
With forecasts predicting between 4 and 8 inches of snow, officials are taking no chances. The Virginia Department of Transportation (VDOT) has advised residents to avoid travel during the storm, particularly as it is likely to impede the evening rush hour on February 11 and both rush hours the following day.
VDOT crews have been actively brining roads and will shift to treating them with snow-plowing efforts as the storm progresses. Public services are on high alert as they prepare to manage the winter weather impact on roadways and public safety.
Parents and guardians within Fairfax County are urged to stay informed and plan accordingly for the day’s disruptions. FCPS will continue to provide updates through their communication channels, ensuring families have access to real-time information on school operating hours.
This situation is indicative of the broader trend as educational institutions strive to put student safety first during unpredictable winter weather. Parents can stay up-to-date on the latest emergency announcements through the FCPS official channels and social media outlets.
Stay safe, NOVA! Prepare for the snow, and make adjustments to your schedules as necessary. The winter weather is anticipated to hit hard, bringing with it not just snow but icy road conditions affecting the region’s usual mobility.