Midlands Schools Implement Two-Hour Delays Following Winter Storm

News Summary

In response to the lingering icy conditions from a recent winter storm, numerous school districts in the Midlands have announced a two-hour delay for classes this Friday. Although the snow has melted, overnight temperatures have created dangerous patches of black ice, prompting officials to prioritize student safety. Districts such as Lexington and Richland have adjusted their schedules, emphasizing the necessity of cautious travel amid winter’s icy aftermath. Parents are advised to remain vigilant while commuting in these challenging conditions.

Midlands Schools Embrace Two-Hour Delays After Winter Storm Woes

In Columbia, the snow finally bid adieu early Wednesday morning, but it seems the winter storm is still hanging around in spirit! Thanks to lingering icy effects, several school districts in the Midlands are shifting gears and kicking off classes on a two-hour delay this Friday.

While the fluffy white snow and slippery ice have melted away, the plummeting temperatures overnight have produced sneaky patches of ice that can turn an innocent commute into a slippery adventure. Drivers, beware! With another dip in temperatures expected Thursday night hitting a low of 22 degrees, it’s clear why the school officials are being extra cautious.

Safety First!

On Friday morning, the icy aftermath of the winter storm is projected to create less-than-friendly driving conditions. Early morning bus routes are a big concern for school districts, as dark conditions may make black ice nearly invisible. Giving everyone a bit of extra time seems to be the wise move.

Among the districts adjusting their schedules, Lexington 1 is one to note, emphasizing that the two-hour delay allows for all routes to run in the safety of daylight. Quite an important factor, especially when you consider little ones are getting on the bus before the sun’s even up!

Here’s the Rundown on School Plans

The following plans were set in motion for the Midlands schools:

• Lexington-Richland 5: A 2-hour delay for all schools and the virtual FIVE program, but no 3K preschool sessions will take place. Safety always comes first!
• Lexington 1: Classes will start two hours later, but all preschool half-day classes are canceled for the day, while afternoon programs will go on unchanged.
• Lexington 2: Starting with a 2-hour delay, they’ll also cancel 3K half-day classes, but regular dismissals will remain the same.
• Lexington 3: Like their neighbors, they’re also opting for a delayed start, which will affect drop-off times.
• Lexington 4: The 2-hour delay allows for some sunshine during commuting.
• Richland 1: On a 2-hour delay with adjusted start times, though breakfast will be skipped—lunch will still be served, so no one will go hungry!
• Richland 2: Schools will follow suit with a 2-hour delay as well.

Earlier Closures and Seasonal Challenges

It’s worth mentioning that due to the hazardous conditions, previous closures and e-learning days were activated earlier in the week. A snowfall on January 21st amplified the concerns for student safety, leading to temporary halts to in-person classes and modified operational hours.

As if that wasn’t enough, the cold weather has ushered in a weather advisory known for issuing concerns about pesky black ice that refuses to melt away, thanks to the chilling sub-freezing temperatures. The icy remnants are something to keep a vigilant eye on, particularly for those early morning drives.

As the Midlands schools navigate these frosty challenges, it’s clear that safety is the top priority. With a little bit of patience and awareness, everyone will be back to their usual routines in no time. Until then, stay cozy, stay safe, and keep those mittens handy!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Winter Storm Impacts Columbia, SC: Snowfall and School Closures
Winter Weather Alert in the Midlands
Winter Storm Warning Issued for South Carolina
Midlands Schools Adjust Schedules for Winter Weather
Columbia Secures $204 Million Grant to Alleviate Traffic Issues
Changes Coming for Chapin Drivers
Columbia Braces for Tropical Storm Debby’s Impact

Additional Resources

• ABC Columbia: School Closings & Delays
• WLTX: Midlands Students Return
• The State: Latest on School Closures
• WISTV: School Delays & Closures
• KOMU: Mid-Missouri School Closings