News Summary
As winter weather impacts regions across South Carolina, numerous school districts are adjusting their schedules for student safety. Forecasts indicate cold rain, freezing rain, sleet, and potential wet snow. Early dismissals are occurring in districts such as Lexington Two, Clarendon County, and Fairfield, among others. Most after-school programs have been canceled, while some are adopting eLearning days. Parents are urged to stay informed about changes in their children’s school schedules amidst these weather disruptions.
Winter Weather Causes Schools to Dismiss Early in South Carolina
As winter weather grips the Midlands and regions across South Carolina, many school districts have made the decision to adjust their schedules, ensuring the safety of students and staff alike. With forecasts calling for a mix of cold rain, freezing rain, sleet, and even some wet snow beginning Friday afternoon, parents should take note of the changes in their children’s school schedules.
Early Dismissals Across Several Districts
In Lexington Two, elementary schools will send students home early at 11:30 a.m., while middle and high school students will be dismissed at 12:30 p.m. on January 10. Notably, all after-school programs and activities, including athletic events and practices, have also been canceled.
Meanwhile, Clarendon County schools will also experience early dismissals, and they are calling off all after-school activities for the day. For those in Fairfield County, students will not be attending school in person as they opt for an eLearning Day. Assignments will be made available on Google Classroom, with work due by Wednesday, January 15.
Over in Kershaw County, school leaders have opted for early dismissals as well. Elementary schools will clear out at 11:30 a.m., middle schools at 11:45 a.m., and high schools at noon. All childcare programs and extracurricular activities for the day have been canceled to keep everyone safe and secure.
More Schools Join the Ranks
Also making adjustments, Lee County schools will release elementary students at 11:30 a.m. and middle/high school students at noon. Those planning on attending any after-school programs, field trips, or events should be aware these activities have all been called off.
For those in Lexington One, it will be a half-day schedule. Elementary schools will have students on their way home at 11:20 a.m., and middle schools at 12:05 p.m. High school dismissal times may vary, and after-school childcare programs have been canceled.
Lexington Three has also decided to transition to an eLearning Day for all students, leading to the cancellation of any after-school events. Lexington-Richland Five is similarly dismissing its students early, outlining specific times based on school levels while also calling off all after-school activities.
Newberry County and Richland Schools Respond
In an effort to keep students safe, Newberry County schools will host an eLearning Day as well and cancel all activities on Friday. Orangeburg County is also adjusting schedules, with elementary schools letting students go at 11:30 a.m. and high school students being dismissed at 1:00 p.m. like their counterparts, all while canceling after-school activities.
Richland One schools will also be dismissing students early, ensuring they have breakfast and lunch before heading out, while also calling off all after-school programs. Following suit, Richland Two has announced early dismissals, putting a halt to all scheduled after-school events.
Safety First in Sumter and Other Counties
In Sumter County, schools have opted for early dismissal as elementary schools will release students at 11:00 a.m., middle schools at 11:30 a.m., and high schools at 12:30 p.m. Like others, all after-school activities have been canceled.
Additionally, Calhoun County, Fairfield, and Miller counties have all announced early dismissals to ensure safety during what is set to be some tricky weather conditions heading into the weekend.
As each district navigates these winter weather disruptions, it’s important to stay informed and keep an eye on official channels for the latest updates. Stay warm and safe, everyone!
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Winter Storm Watch Issued for Midlands Counties
Devastating Wildfires Cause Widespread Destruction in Los Angeles
Severe Winter Storm Wreaks Havoc from Midwest to East Coast
South Carolina Braces for Warmer, Drier Winter Amid Weak La Niña Conditions
Additional Resources
- WISTV: Midlands School Districts Announce Schedule Changes Ahead of Winter Weather
- News Tribune: School Closings and Weather-Related Announcements for Friday, Jan. 10, 2025
- Columbia Missourian: Columbia Prepares for Another Round of Winter Weather
- August Chronicle: Augusta Area Schools Open and Closed Ahead of Winter Storm
- Google Search: South Carolina Winter Weather School Closures
