News Summary
As winter weather approaches, Midlands schools are taking measures to ensure safety by implementing early dismissals and cancellations of after-school activities. Multiple districts, including Lexington Two, Clarendon County, and Fairfield County, are adjusting their schedules in response to predicted snow and ice. Parents should prepare for changes in pick-up times, with many schools letting students out several hours earlier than usual. Virtual learning days are also being implemented in some areas. Families are advised to stay informed about these changes as hazardous road conditions are expected.
Midlands Schools Prepare for Winter Weather Adjustments
As snowflakes begin to swirl in the Midlands and across South Carolina, school districts are taking proactive steps to ensure the safety of students and staff. With winter weather predicted to bring a mix of cold rain, freezing rain, sleet, and wet snow beginning Friday afternoon, schools are adjusting their schedules.
Early Dismissals All Around
In Lexington Two, parents should prepare for an early dismissal as elementary schools will let students out at 11:30 a.m., while middle and high schools will wrap up at 12:30 p.m. As a heads up, all after-school programs and activities, including athletic events and practices, are canceled.
Clarendon County is also getting in on the early dismissals, as students will be released early with no after-school activities planned. Fairfield County has opted for a virtual learning day, meaning students will have an eLearning day on Friday, with assignments to be submitted by Wednesday, Jan. 15.
Adjustments in Surrounding Counties
In Kershaw County, it’s a similar story, with elementary schools dismissing at 11:30 a.m., middle schools at 11:45 a.m., and high schools at noon. Lee County schools are also adopting an early dismissal protocol, where elementary schools will send kids home at 11:30 a.m. and middle/high schools at 12:00 p.m. Just like in Lexington Two, all after-school programs will be canceled.
Meanwhile, in Lexington One, students will enjoy a half-day schedule with elementary schools letting out at 11:20 a.m. and high and middle schools dismissing at varying times. Students in Lexington Three will have the day off with an eLearning Day, and after-school events are canceled here too.
More Counties Taking Precautions
Schools in Lexington-Richland Five also have early dismissals lined up, with elementary schools sending kids home at 11:50 a.m. and high schools at 1:05 p.m.. Similar plans are in motion for Newberry County, which is also adopting an eLearning Day, resulting in all schools and activities being canceled.
Orangeburg County will dismiss students early, with dismissal times varying depending on the school, while Richland One and Richland Two schools are aligned with the theme of early dismissals, ensuring that all after-school activities are off the books.
As a final note, Saluda County and Sumter County schools are both opting for virtual learning, while Calhoun County is canceling all after-school activities and releasing students early on Friday. The overarching theme among all these districts is a commitment to safety as the weather presents possible hazardous road conditions.
What This Means for Families
For families across the Midlands, it’s essential to remain alert and stay informed as conditions evolve. Be prepared for kids coming home earlier than usual and plan accordingly for any potential disruptions.
As we dig into January and embrace the chilly weather, remember to check in with local schools for the latest updates regarding schedules and activities. Stay safe and warm!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- WIS TV: Midlands School Districts Schedule Changes
- The State: Weather News
- WLTX: School Closings Due to Winter Weather
- Fox Carolina: Upstate School District eLearning Day
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Winter Weather
