News Summary

As winter weather continues to challenge the Midlands, several school districts are implementing a two-hour delay to ensure the safety of students and staff. Following a recent storm that left melting snow and ice, schools in Richland and Lexington counties are making adjustments to bus and start times. This move comes amid concerns of further icy conditions with expected low temperatures, prompting schools to prioritize visibility and safety during commutes.

Midlands Schools Adjust Schedules Amid Winter Weather Woes

As the icy grip of winter continues to linger over the Midlands, school districts are taking responsible steps to ensure the safety of students and staff. Thanks to a recent winter storm that left behind a slick mix of melting snow and treacherous ice patches, schools in Richland and Lexington counties are implementing a two-hour delay this Friday.

What’s Happening?

While the snow may have melted, the overnight freeze created conditions that are anything but friendly for commuters. With temperatures expected to plummet to a low of 22 degrees, officials are concerned about the potential for more ice to form. This situation has prompted districts to adjust their schedules as a safety precaution, allowing bus routes to operate in the light of day for better visibility and safety.

Details by District

Here’s a breakdown of the specific delays announced for each district:

• Lexington-Richland 5: All schools and offices will operate on a two-hour delay, and unfortunately, all 3K preschool programs are canceled for the day.
• Lexington 1: Schools will start on a two-hour delay. There will be no preschool half-day classes, but afternoon dismissal is set to follow the regular schedule.
• Lexington 2: Schools are opening on a two-hour delay, maintaining normal dismissal times in the afternoon. Note that 3K half-day classes are also canceled.
• Lexington 3: Similar two-hour delay affecting drop-off times for car riders, with bus riders reporting two hours later than usual.
• Lexington 4: Operating on a two-hour delay, with the remainder of the day sticking to the normal schedule.
• Richland 1: A two-hour delay means new start times for students: 9:30 a.m. for elementary schools, 10:45 a.m. for middle schools, and 10:00 a.m. for high schools. Please note that breakfast will not be served.
• Richland 2: Schools will be open with a two-hour delay, allowing students and staff to report accordingly. After-school activities are going ahead as planned.

Winter Challenges Ahead

This season’s weather challenges are more than just an inconvenience—they have also disrupted educational schedules significantly. Many schools across the state have turned to e-learning days due to an increasing number of disruptions caused by hurricanes, floods, and of course, snow. For those unaware, South Carolina’s regulations limit districts to just five e-learning days per year, with schools required to maintain a minimum of 180 instructional days.

Should any district exhaust its allotted e-learning days and make-up days, school boards have the ability to grant waivers for additional missed days. In extreme cases, this could lead to extended classroom hours or even the need for Saturday classes as officials scramble to meet the instructional time requirements.

Stay Safe and Stay Informed!

Given the unpredictable winter conditions, communities are being reminded to exercise caution while traveling. Whether you’re dropping off the kids or commuting to work, safety should always come first during this cold season. The Midlands community is encouraged to stay informed and remain vigilant on the road as they navigate the remnants of winter weather.

In the meantime, parents and students can prepare for a slightly altered Friday schedule while embracing the chill that the season brings.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Columbia, S.C. Faces Road Hazards and School Closures Due to Snowstorm
Winter Storm Hits Midlands of South Carolina
Midlands Schools Adjust Schedules for Hazardous Winter Weather

Additional Resources

• WLTX News
• Wikipedia: E-learning
• Our Midland News
• Google Search: winter weather school closures
• MRT News
• Google Scholar: winter weather impact on schools
• ABC Columbia
• Encyclopedia Britannica: winter weather
• WACH News
• Google News: midlands school delays