News Summary
With snow expected to hit the Midlands, several school districts are modifying their schedules to ensure student safety. Early dismissals have been announced, with many schools implementing e-learning days for Wednesday. Local universities and community services are also adjusting operations, emphasizing the importance of safety amidst winter weather conditions.
Midlands School Districts Adjust Schedules as Snow Approaches
As residents of the Midlands brace for a wintry mix, several school districts are taking preparations seriously. Snow is projected to start falling between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Tuesday, with the National Weather Service predicting that the southern parts of the state will bear the brunt of this cold front. The weather forecast suggests that areas near the I-20 corridor could see up to an inch of snow, so it’s no surprise that schools are adjusting their schedules to keep students safe.
Early Dismissals Across the Board
Richland County schools are among the first to announce changes. Richland 1 plans to have elementary schools release at 11 a.m., followed by high schools at 11:45 a.m. and middle schools at 12:30 p.m. Students will still get to enjoy breakfast and lunch before heading home, but all afternoon programs and activities are canceled for the day. As an added precaution, Wednesday will be designated as an e-learning day across the district.
Richland 2 is also making adjustments, with all district schools following a similar early dismissal pattern. Elementary schools will let out at 11 a.m., middle schools at 11:45 a.m., and high schools at 12:30 p.m.. Like Richland 1, they will implement e-learning on Wednesday, allowing students to continue their studies from the comfort of home.
The Lexington 1 district is operating on a half-day schedule. Elementary schools will close at 11:20 a.m., while middle schools will dismiss at varying times between 12:05 p.m. and 12:25 p.m.. High schools will follow suit, with an early dismissal just before 1 p.m.. Unfortunately, e-learning will occur on Wednesday as well for Lexington students.
Other Districts Follow Suit
In Lexington 2, elementary students will exit at 11:30 a.m. and middle schoolers at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday has been set aside for e-learning here too. Not to be left out, Lexington 3 and Richland-Lexington 5 districts have both opted for early dismissals on Tuesday, followed by Wednesday e-learning days.
Further into the Midlands, the Sumter School District announced a complete closure for Wednesday, allowing students to stay safely at home during the storm. In Kershaw County, students will see an early exit on Tuesday and a two-hour delay on Wednesday, which indicates they are making accommodations while keeping safety a priority.
Moving to Clarendon County, the district has opted for early dismissals on Tuesday with e-learning set for Wednesday. Fairfield County schools will also transition to e-learning for the day, while Lee County schools will shift their Wednesday schedule as well.
Higher Education and Community Impact
For those with older kids or even adult learners, the University of South Carolina will cancel classes starting at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday and will move all Wednesday classes to an online format. Likewise, Midlands Technical College plans to close its campuses by 2:30 p.m. Tuesday.
Community services aren’t escaping the snow preparation either. The Richland Library will shut down all its locations starting at noon on Tuesday, canceling all events in light of the weather. Additionally, the Richland County Recreation Commission will also begin closing various programs from noon.
Transportation Adjustments
It’s essential to note that the COMET Bus Service will halt operations at 4 p.m. Tuesday. They are optimistic about resuming service by 10 a.m. Wednesday, but this will depend on how quickly the snow clears up.
So, as a friendly reminder to everyone: Stay safe, keep warm, and enjoy the beauty of the snow from a cozy spot at home. Education might take a backseat for a day, but everyone’s safety is what truly matters!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Midlands Schools Adjust Schedules Amid Winter Weather Woes
Winter Storm Hits Midlands of South Carolina
Winter Storm Warning Issued for South Carolina
Midlands Schools Adjust Schedules for Hazardous Winter Weather
Newberry County Takes Winter Weather Precautions
New Provost Appointed at Presbyterian College
Winter Weather Hits Columbia with Early Snow and Sleet
Columbia Prepares for Upcoming Winter Storm
Winter Weather Leads to Early School Dismissals in SC
Newberry County Braces for Hurricane Helene’s Onslaught
Additional Resources
- WLTX: Midlands Students Returning to Classrooms
- ABC Columbia: Midlands Schools Resume After Snow Day
- WIS TV: School Districts Announce Delays and Closures
- Google Search: Midlands Schools Snow Delays
- The State: Winter Weather Impact on Education
- Wikipedia: School Delays and Cancellations
