Chicago Public Schools Prepare for Frigid Temperatures: Closures and E-Learning Updates
As an extreme cold warning descends upon northeastern Illinois and southeastern Wisconsin, Chicago-area schools are proactively preparing for dangerously low temperatures and wind chills potentially reaching -40°F. Several schools have already announced closures or a shift to e-learning for the week, prioritizing the safety of students and staff. The National Weather Service (NWS) issued the warning, effective 3 a.m. Friday, forecasting wind chills as low as -30 to -40 degrees.
School Closures and E-Learning Announcements
As of today, several schools have announced closures or are closely monitoring the situation. Here’s a breakdown of the latest updates:
- Bridgeport Catholic Academy (Chicago): Will switch to eLearning on Friday, January 24th. Students are advised to bring home necessary materials on Thursday.
- River Trails School District 26 (Mount Prospect): Closely monitoring the predicted extreme cold. A final decision regarding Friday classes is expected by noon on Thursday.
- Lake Forest Community High School: A decision about Friday classes will be made at 12 p.m. Thursday. Updates on Saturday, January 24th activities, including the Winter Formal, will also be communicated by noon on Thursday, January 22nd.
- Grace Lutheran School (River Forest), Ashburn Christian Academy (Orland Park), and St. John The Baptist Catholic School (Winfield): All will be closed on Friday.
Stay Updated: Check school closing information here: NBC 5 School Closing List (Note: If accessing from the app, use a mobile browser).
How Chicago Public Schools Makes Closure Decisions
The decision to close schools isn’t based on a single temperature or snowfall amount. Chicago Public Schools (CPS) employs a comprehensive approach, working closely with the City’s Office of Emergency Management and Communication (OEMC). Several factors are evaluated, including:
- Wind Chill: The primary factor, considering the impact of wind on perceived temperature.
- Road Conditions: Assessing the safety of transportation for students and staff.
- Heating System Functionality: Ensuring all school buildings have operational heating systems.
- Snow Removal: Confirming sidewalks, walkways, and parking lots are cleared for safe access.
CPS emphasizes that its maintenance crews regularly test equipment and heating systems, and each school has a snow removal plan in place. The health and safety of students remain the top priority when making closure decisions. You can find more information on the CPS website.
Families are encouraged to monitor school district websites, social media channels, and communication systems (phone, email, text message) for the most up-to-date information.
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