The region is kicking off December with snowy weather, prompting a winter weather advisory effective from 7 p.m. on December 1. The National Weather Service forecasts snow accumulation of 2 to 4 inches, with the snowfall expected to taper off by 6 to 10 a.m. on December 2.
As snowflakes swirl in the frigid early morning air, students, parents, and teachers are left wondering about potential snow days. The response, however, is not straightforward, simply stated as ‘maybe.’
School districts in Greater Cincinnati do not adhere to a unified policy regarding snow-related closures. Each district has its own unique regulations, which are determined by the respective board of education. These policies address calamity days—when school is canceled due to weather—and outline the superintendents’ responsibilities for implementing virtual learning when necessary.
An extreme cold warning issued by the National Weather Service, traditionally signifying when temperatures drop to minus 20 degrees, can trigger discussions among school officials regarding possible cancellations or delays. This warning indicates a risk of hypothermia or frostbite, leading many districts to act cautiously. For instance, Mason City Schools reported that they would close if the temperature or wind chill reaches between minus 20 and minus 25 degrees, a guideline consistent across various schools, as noted in past reports.
Superintendent Larry Hook of the Forest Hills School District recently communicated the district’s inclement weather plans for the 2025-2026 school year. Although specific conditions for closures were not detailed, Hook indicated that district personnel assess road conditions and consult with local municipalities before making decisions.
Similarly, the Lakota School District employs a protocol whereby the chief operating officer and designated staff survey road conditions around 4 or 5 a.m. while coordinating with local authorities. The West Clermont School District follows a comparable strategy, with Superintendent David Fultz stating that he collaborates with local weather experts, government officials, and peer school superintendents to make timely closure decisions.
Higher education institutions in Greater Cincinnati also have their own weather policies. The University of Cincinnati may call for emergency closures when inclement weather threatens safety, typically communicated by 5:30 a.m. The conditions prompting such decisions often align with extreme cold warnings from meteorological authorities.
Xavier University and Miami University outline their criteria for cancellations and delays, specifying distinct categories for different scenarios such as class cancellations or remote learning days. Northern Kentucky University maintains that operations will continue unless specific hazardous conditions arise, evaluating the situation by 6 a.m. for morning classes.
At Thomas More University, classes are generally expected to proceed except under extreme conditions, with closure decisions made by early morning for daytime courses.
As winter settles in, communities are reminded of the importance of safety during inclement weather while looking forward to the festive spirit that the season brings. The snow could provide opportunities for outdoor fun and bonding among families, even as school schedules may be disrupted during the chilly months ahead.