Prince George’s Schools Close Multiple Days After Major Snowstorm
Prince George’s County schools are taking an unusual step this week, announcing closures for several days at once following a powerful winter storm. Typically, school systems in the area make day-to-day decisions after snow events. But with more than 200 schools to manage, officials knew early on that reopening safely would take time.
Interim Superintendent Shawn Joseph explained that the scope of the cleanup was extensive. Roads, parking lots, sidewalks and bus routes all had to be cleared before students and staff could safely return. With 30,000 to 40,000 students who walk to school, the district couldn’t rely on partial clearing in some neighborhoods. This led to the decision to cancel classes through at least Thursday, a rare move for the county.
Nearby Montgomery County also announced multi-day closures after assessing road and campus conditions, highlighting a regional challenge: winter storms can leave unpredictable hazards even after major plows have passed. In Prince George’s County, staff and drivers begin early morning inspections, documenting conditions and coordinating daily with the County Executive and building leaders. Safety remains the top priority, even if streets in some areas appear ready.
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Parents and staff have responded positively to the early announcements. By knowing the closures in advance, families can plan child care and schedules more effectively. Joseph emphasized that this approach could become the new normal for large storms, allowing the district to communicate clearly and reduce uncertainty for students, teachers and families.
Other school systems across Maryland are handling similar challenges. In Anne Arundel County, schools will operate virtually for Thursday and Friday, while Harford County will close schools and offices for the same period. Baltimore County plans a two-hour delay and Howard County continues to evaluate conditions. Officials are stressing the importance of cleared sidewalks and bus stops, because many students rely on walking or neighborhood transportation to reach school safely.
This situation underscores how winter storms can affect more than just travel. School operations, staffing and access to education are all disrupted, forcing districts to balance safety with continuity of learning. It also shows the importance of early communication and preparedness in public institutions.
For families, this means staying alert to updates, preparing for virtual instruction when necessary and ensuring children can safely navigate their routes. For the community, it’s a reminder of the lingering impact of severe weather and the complex logistics behind decisions to keep students safe.
Stay with us for continuous coverage, updates on school reopenings and guidance on how communities are handling the aftermath of this winter storm.
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