Montgomery County Public Schools have announced that they will remain closed on Thursday and Friday following recent winter weather conditions. This decision has left many parents questioning the reasons behind the extended closure.
Superintendent Thomas Taylor explained that the county has approximately 230 school buildings and facilities, all of which require proper treatment and clearance of their parking lots and roadways, similar to public roads. As of midday Wednesday, officials reported that around 90% of the county’s nearly 5,400 miles of roadways had been plowed, indicating some progress in cleanup efforts.
Despite improvements in road conditions, Taylor emphasized that not all areas are safe for school buses. He noted that he has received numerous reports and images from families indicating that some streets remain untouched and unplowed, making it impossible to ensure safe transportation for students.
The superintendent highlighted the geographic diversity of the county, noting that the northern and western regions often experience heavier snowfall, and the types of roads can vary significantly—from multilane residential streets to narrower routes in more rural areas, which are frequently overlooked in such weather scenarios. Moreover, the safety of sidewalks and bus stops is an essential consideration; when these areas are not cleared, it can force pedestrians, including students, into the roadways, raising additional safety concerns.
Taylor pointed out that even if a neighborhood appears passable, the routes taken by critical staff members—such as teachers, principals, and bus drivers—may still be unsafe. He concluded by reinforcing that without the essential staff able to reach the schools, they cannot function properly.
This decision reflects a commitment to student safety and highlights the complexities involved in navigating adverse weather conditions in a diverse geographical landscape. As communities come together to address these challenges, the hope remains that conditions will improve, allowing students to return to their classrooms soon.