CHARLOTTE (MJP) — Five school districts in the area are operating on a two-hour delay Wednesday as officials work to make sure the roads are cleared for students and staff.
Due to hazardous driving conditions and overnight freezing, Avery County schools have opted to move to remote learning.
Schools under a two hour delay:
- Iredell-Statesville Schools
- Alexander County Schools
- Ashe County Schools
- Watauga County Schools
- Rowan-Salisbury Schools
Catawba County schools were on a two-hour delay Tuesday due to black ice on the roads but have announced they will operate on a normal schedule Wednesday.
Several school districts across the region are facing a delayed start on Wednesday due to hazardous icy road conditions. As freezing temperatures and precipitation overnight created unsafe travel conditions, administrators made the decision to delay the school day by two hours to ensure the safety of students, staff, and buses.
What Caused the Delay?
A mix of freezing rain and sleet overnight led to slick, icy roads, creating hazardous conditions for commuters, especially during early morning hours. School officials were closely monitoring the weather and road reports overnight and into the morning, ultimately determining that the delay would allow more time for road crews to treat the streets and make travel safer for everyone.
While the delayed start gives roads more time to clear, it’s still advised that students, parents, and school employees exercise caution, as conditions may remain slippery in certain areas even after the delay.
Which Districts Are Affected?
Several districts are impacted by the two-hour delay, including schools in both urban and rural areas. The affected districts have announced the change on their websites and through automated calls or messages to parents and guardians.
School buses will follow a modified schedule, picking up students two hours later than their normal time. Parents are advised to check with their school’s transportation department for specific updates on bus routes and times.
What Does This Mean for Students and Staff?
For students, the delayed start simply means that classes will begin later than usual, giving them more time to travel safely. After-school programs, sports practices, and other extracurricular activities are expected to proceed as scheduled unless further weather concerns arise.
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For staff members, the two-hour delay allows extra time to arrive at school safely without rushing or risking dangerous conditions. Teachers and administrative personnel should check with their school for any specific adjustments or plans related to the delay.
Safety Tips for Traveling in Icy Conditions
Even with a delay, it’s important to take extra precautions while traveling during icy weather. Here are some safety tips:
- Drive Slowly: Ice can be difficult to spot, so drive at a reduced speed and leave extra space between vehicles.
- Avoid Sudden Movements: Make gradual turns and slow down gently to prevent losing control of the vehicle.
- Stay Updated: Listen to local news or check weather apps for real-time updates on road conditions.
- Dress Warmly: In case of delays, ensure students are dressed warmly as they may need to wait for buses or walk in the cold.
The school district will continue to monitor weather conditions for the remainder of the day. Any further changes, including potential school closures or additional delays, will be communicated through the district’s usual notification channels.
In the meantime, parents and students are encouraged to stay alert to weather conditions and make sure they are prepared for any further disruptions in the coming days. With winter weather continuing to impact many areas, it’s essential to stay informed and plan ahead to ensure a safe and smooth school day.
While the icy conditions caused by winter weather have led to a delay in school start times on Wednesday, the safety of students, staff, and families remains the priority. As districts adjust to these conditions, it’s crucial that everyone remains cautious and prepared for the challenges that winter weather can bring. The two-hour delay provides time for road conditions to improve, helping ensure that everyone can make it to school safely and on time.
Juniper Calloway is a dedicated journalist with 3 years of experience in covering hard-hitting stories. Known for her commitment to delivering timely and accurate updates, she currently works with MikeandJon Podcast, where she focuses on reporting critical topics such as crime, local news, and national developments across the United States. Her ability to break down complex issues and keep audiences informed has established her as a trusted voice in journalism.
