School Closures in the Southeast Stretch Into 2nd Week After Latest Winter Storm

A series of severe winter storms has forced school districts across the Southeastern United States to extend closures into a second week, leaving students out of classrooms, complicating family schedules and prompting districts to consider remote learning and makeup days as communities cope with icy roads, power outages and disrupted routines.

By Aisha Patel – Global Affairs Correspondent

Last Updated: Feb. 3, 2026

Second Week of Closures Across the Southeast

School systems from Mississippi to Maryland continue weather‑related closures for a second straight week as the latest winter storm’s aftermath leaves dangerous conditions in place. Heavy snow, ice and lingering treacherous roads have led major districts to cancel classes through the week, with some schools extending closures at least through Tuesday. The ongoing disruption highlights how persistent winter weather — unusual for much of the Southeast — is continuing to upend daily life and education. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

Power Outages and Infrastructure Challenges

The storms left tens of thousands of residents without electricity, further complicating reopening efforts. In Nashville and parts of Mississippi, power outages persisted days after the worst of the weather, making it difficult for schools to resume normal operations. Many families have faced substantial burdens — such as relocating temporarily or paying for hotel stays — due to extended outages that affected both heating and basic utilities at home. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Educational Impact and Remote Learning Efforts

Districts are scrambling to address lost instructional time. Some — like Charlotte‑Mecklenburg Schools and Memphis‑Shelby County Schools — have provided remote learning materials or learning packets while students remain home. However, power outages and connectivity issues have limited remote learning’s effectiveness in some areas. Other districts have simply declared traditional snow days with no assigned schoolwork. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

Making Up for Lost School Days

School leaders are weighing options to make up for days lost to weather. With some systems confronting closures spanning a full week or more, districts are considering extending the school year, converting teacher workdays or scheduled holidays into instructional days, and adjusting calendars to ensure students receive required instructional time. Parents and educators are engaged in discussions about how best to preserve educational continuity amid ongoing weather challenges. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

Broader Community and Safety Concerns

Officials have emphasized that safety remains the top priority, noting that many roads — especially in residential areas and side streets — are still hazardous for buses and student drop‑offs. Even after main thoroughfares are cleared, lingering ice and subfreezing temperatures make travel risky. Local leaders are urging patience from families and continuing efforts to clear campuses, parking lots and bus routes to ensure conditions improve before widespread reopening. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}