Howard County Public School System has announced school will open two hours late on January 22 due to freezing temperatures and icy conditions. Authorities made this decision to prioritize safety amid challenging weather circumstances.
Students at high schools, who were initially scheduled for early dismissal, are now required to arrive two hours later than usual, with the school day dismissing at the regular time of 2:35 PM. This change was confirmed by Brian Bassett, the director of communications and engagement for the Howard County Public School System.
"Due to freezing temperatures and overnight refreezing, Howard County Public School System buildings will open two hours late Wednesday, Jan. 22," Bassett noted, emphasizing the need for adapted schedules to address safety concerns. All morning childcare programs operating within HCPSS schools, which are sponsored by the Columbia Association and the Howard County Department of Recreation & Parks, will similarly be delayed by two hours.
It is important to note, due to the absence of half-day pre-kindergarten and RECC programs on Wednesdays, this segment of students will not be affected by the late start. The school district has committed to reassessing conditions at 7:30 AM to determine if continued operations are safe or if school must be canceled altogether.
These disruptions have sparked questions within the community, particularly surrounding how many school days have already been called off this winter. Bassett highlighted, "We have designated a total of five inclement weather days in our calendar. So far, the school system has used three inclement weather days." Families and staff are urged to stay informed about the latest updates and potential changes through available channels.
Howard County residents are advised to monitor local news sources such as Patch for timely updates and weather advisories. Such proactive measures help to communicate changes effectively and swiftly as weather transitions impact daily routines.
School officials will navigate through the icy challenges, adjusting as necessary to maintain education safety and quality, reflecting the school district's commitment to its students amid adverse weather conditions. The decision to delay openings not only protects students but also demonstrates the district's responsiveness to community needs.
Although such weather disruptions can be inconvenient, the school district's focus remains on the health and wellbeing of its students. Citizens are encouraged to remain vigilant, prioritize safety, and stay informed through official communications as conditions evolve throughout the winter season.