Alexandria Public Schools Change Schedule For Jan. 22

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Alexandria City Public Schools will operate on a two-hour delay Wednesday due to the impact of below-freezing temperatures overnight.

The delay will allow more time for buses more time to warm up after a chilly night. Pre-K-12 students will report two hours later and should be at their bus stops two hours later than usual. The Virginia Preschool Initiative will operate on a delayed schedule, Morning Early Childhood Special Education will be canceled, and Afternoon Early Childhood Special Education will be on a regular schedule.

Essential personnel, including building engineers, custodians, maintenance shop employees and security staff, will report at the normal time if safe to do so. Employees should consult with their supervisor.

"These frigid conditions mean that it will be important for everyone to dress warmly to stay comfortable and safe," Superintendent Melanie Kay-Wyatt said in a message to families. "Please ensure that students are dressed appropriately for the cold, including wearing layers, coats, hats, gloves and warm footwear. Staff members are also encouraged to bundle up for the chilly temperatures."

Alexandria and other parts of Northern Virginia are under a cold weather advisory through 11 a.m. Wednesday due to impacts from the polar vortex. The National Weather Service says cold wind chills could be as low as zero to 5 degrees below zero.