After a brief taste of spring-like weather, Mother Nature is throwing North Jersey a curveball in the form of a major winter storm. With snowfall predictions ranging from 6 to 18 inches, many schools have already announced closures, delays, or a switch to remote learning for Tuesday, February 13th. This post will be your one-stop shop for all the latest information on school closures and adjustments across the region.
Key Takeaways:
- Winter storm expected Monday night into Tuesday, with heavy snowfall predicted during morning commute.
- Numerous school districts in North Jersey have announced closures, delays, or remote learning for Tuesday.
- Stay updated by checking your school district’s website and social media pages for the latest information.
- Prepare for potential power outages and travel disruptions.
School Closures:
As of Tuesday afternoon, February 13th, several school districts in North Jersey have announced full closures for Tuesday. These include:
- Bergen County: Bergenfield, Bloomfield, Butler, Closter, Cresskill, Demarest, Denville, Dover, Dumont, Englewood, Englewood Cliffs, Fair Lawn, Fort Lee, Franklin Lakes, Glen Rock, Hackensack, Hasbrouck Heights, Haworth, Midland Park, Paramus, Ridgefield, Ridgewood, Saddle Brook, Teaneck, Westwood, Wyckoff.
- Essex County: East Orange, Irvington, Newark, Nutley, Orange, West Orange.
- Morris County: Chester, Chatham, Denville, Dover, Hanover Park, Harding, Mendham Township, Mendham Borough, Morris Hills, Morris School District, Mountain Lakes, Parsippany-Troy Hills, Randolph, West Morris Regional High School District.
- Passaic County: Clifton, Garfield, Haledon, Passaic, Paterson.
- Union County: Elizabeth, Hillside, Linden, Rahway, Roselle, Union.
Delayed Openings and Remote Learning:
While some schools are opting for a full closure, others are implementing delayed openings or a shift to remote learning.
- Delayed Openings: Some districts, like Clinton, East Orange, Franklin Township, and Hillsborough, have announced a delayed opening, allowing for additional time for road clearing and safer travel conditions.
- Remote Learning: A few districts, such as West Essex Regional School District, will switch to remote learning for the day, minimizing disruptions to schedules while prioritizing student safety.
Staying Informed:
The situation is fluid, and updates are arriving frequently. To ensure you have the most current information, it’s crucial to monitor your school district’s official communication channels:
- School website: This is the primary source of updates for most districts. Look for a dedicated section for weather-related announcements or a general alert system.
- Social media: Many districts utilize Facebook, Twitter, and other platforms to share immediate updates. Follow your district’s official accounts for real-time information.
- Local news: Local news outlets will often provide updates on school closures and delays. Tune in to your local radio or television station, or check reputable online news sources.
Preparing for the Storm:
Even if your child’s school has not announced a closure, it’s wise to be prepared for potential disruptions. Here are some tips:
- Stock up on essential supplies: Have enough non-perishable food, water, and medications on hand in case of power outages or travel delays.
- Charge your devices: Ensure your phones, laptops, and other electronic devices are fully charged in case of power loss.
- Clear walkways and driveways: If possible, clear snow and ice from walkways and driveways to ensure safe passage.
- Plan for alternative childcare: If your child’s school closes unexpectedly, have a backup plan for childcare arrangements.
- Stay informed about road conditions: Monitor weather reports and traffic updates before venturing out, especially if you expect delays or closures.
By staying informed and prepared, you can help ensure your child’s safety and wellbeing during this winter storm. Remember, the priority is always student safety, and schools will make decisions based on the latest weather forecasts and road conditions.
