Montgomery Co. Schools Change Schedule On Jan. 7

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MD — All Montgomery County Public Schools and offices will be closed Tuesday, Jan. 7, because of the ongoing winter storm expected to bring 6 to 10 inches of snow to parts of the region.

For the second day in a row, there will be no instruction for students, the district announcement of a Code Red said.

All schools and offices are closed. Emergency personnel must report on time.

All activities, field trips, and programs in schools and on school grounds are canceled, including athletic practices and events.

Childcare programs and community use activities are canceled.

Decisions about Wednesday classes will be made when more information is available, the school district said.

Virtual learning is not available for Tuesday's closure.

"We are announcing a snow day due to ongoing dangerous winter weather conditions and the time needed to clear snow and ice from schools, roads, and sidewalks," district officials said. "Safety remains our top priority, and this decision allows emergency crews to address hazards and ensure safe travel. We understand that this decision impacts families, requiring adjustments to childcare, work plans, and other responsibilities, and we appreciate your understanding and flexibility."

Sites are being prepared to provide emergency food services, the district said, and those locations will be identified and shared with the community early Tuesday morning.

Related:

• Here's How Much Snow Has Fallen So Far In MD
• Latest Snow Forecast For MD Calls For 5-12 Inch Totals

The district's calendar has two snow days built into the schedule; the closings on Monday and Tuesday will use those two snow days.

How does MCPS make weather-related operating status decisions?

Officials consider:

• The safety of students, staff, and families
• Current and extended weather forecast
• Road and traffic conditions

Closures and Delayed Opening:

• National Weather Service forecast
• Coordination of School System and County Response
• Evening Decision - made and announced by 7 pm
• If necessary, updates and forecast from National Weather Service by 4:30 am
• Coordination of School System and County Response
• Morning Decision - made and announced by 5 am (Unless there is an emergency that necessitates a later notification time.)

Early Release

• National Weather Service forecast
• Coordination of School System and County Response
• Early Release Decision - made and announced by 10:30 am if weather is expected to impact afternoon transportation (Unless there is an emergency that necessitates a later notification time.)
• If weather is not expected to impact afternoon transportation, but may impact evening activities, a decision and announcement will be made as early as possible in the afternoon. (Unless there is an emergency that necessitates a later notification time.)

How residents can receive MCPS Emergency Information and any changes to the Operating Status Color Codes:

• MCPS Web: Home Page
• Sign up for Alert MCPS
• Social Media (X, Facebook, Instagram)
• Ask MCPS (240)740-3000
• Your MCPS School Home Page