Columbia, S.C. Faces Road Hazards and School Closures Due to Snowstorm

It’s been quite a weather rollercoaster in Columbia, South Carolina this week! The snowstorm that swept across the state has left a chilly blanket of ice on many roadways. While some of that ice has begun to melt, experts warn that temperatures are expected to drop again, setting the stage for a potentially hazardous black ice situation come Thursday morning. Unsurprisingly, this has forced several school districts to rethink their plans and adjust schedules to keep everyone safe.

School District Announcements

Here’s an up-to-date rundown of school district closures and e-learning days announced so far:

• Calhoun County Public Schools: Closed on January 23.
• Clarendon County School District: Continuing with e-learning on Thursday, January 23. No on-site activities will take place, and students should check Google Classroom for assignments, adhering to the district’s e-learning guidelines at ClarendonCSD.org.
• Fairfield County School District: All schools will be closed on January 23, and this is not an e-learning day. Students will need to make up for this missed day on May 26, which happens to be Memorial Day.
• Kershaw County School District: Thursday, January 23, will be an e-learning day. Students in grades K-2 will receive paper packets, while older students will use Canvas for assignments. Teachers will be available to help during designated virtual office hours.
• Lee County School District: An e-learning day is scheduled for all schools on Thursday, January 23. All after-school programs and activities are canceled.
• Lexington One: Continuing with e-learning, all after-school activities are canceled. Students have five days to complete their assignments.
• Lexington Two: Also adopting an e-learning schedule on January 23. All after-school activities are canceled.
• Lexington Four: Schools and district office will be closed on January 23. This will require a make-up day on February 17.
• School District Five of Lexington & Richland Counties: Closed on January 23, with plans for a makeup day on March 17.
• Orangeburg County Schools: Closed on January 23.
• Richland One: Schools are closed, with no e-learning scheduled on January 23.
• Richland School District Two: An e-learning day is confirmed for January 23.
• Saluda County Schools: Operating on a two-and-a-half-hour delay.
• Sumter School District: Closed on January 23, with a traditional makeup day planned for February 17.

College Updates

For those attending higher education institutions, there are some updates regarding campus operations:

• Columbia College: Will have a delayed start, resuming normal operations at noon.
• Columbia International University: Opening at noon on January 23.
• Midlands Technical College: Campuses will open at 12 p.m. with classes starting at 12:45 p.m.
• South Carolina State University: Resuming in-person classes at 11 a.m. with morning classes held online.

Closing Thoughts

It’s a bustling time in Columbia, S.C., as schools adapt to the icy conditions and families adjust their daily routines. With safety as the top priority, it’s wise to stay updated by checking directly with your local school district for the latest news. Whether you’re a student, a parent, or a teacher, we encourage everyone to take care and stay warm!

As the situation develops, we will continue to keep you posted on any new announcements from school districts and other institutions in the area. Stay safe out there!