Massachusetts residents woke up to a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain on Thursday, February 13—a classic New England winter storm that has become all too familiar. For parents, students, and educators, this means one thing: checking for school closings and delays.
With hazardous road conditions and plummeting temperatures, many districts across the state have opted to cancel classes or implement delayed start times. This article explains everything you need about school closures, safety tips for navigating the storm, and how local officials respond to keep communities safe.
Why Schools Are Closing or Delaying
Weather Conditions Create Dangerous Travel Risks
The National Weather Service issued a Winter Weather Advisory for much of Massachusetts early Thursday morning, warning of icy roads and limited visibility. By mid-morning, several inches of snow had accumulated in central and western parts of the state, while coastal areas experienced a messy mix of freezing rain and sleet.
For school districts, the decision to close or delay isn’t made lightly. Before making an announcement, administrators weigh factors like road safety, bus operations, and building conditions. According to Michael O’Connor, superintendent of Springfield Public Schools, “Our top priority is always the safety of our students and staff. When weather poses significant risks, we err on caution.”
Springfield was among the first districts to announce closures, followed by Worcester, Lowell, and other major cities. Smaller towns like Amherst and Pittsfield opted for two-hour delays to allow plows time to clear roads.
Complete List of School Closings and Delays
Major Districts Affected
Here’s a quick rundown of some of the largest districts impacted by Thursday’s storm:
- Boston Public Schools: Closed
- Worcester Public Schools Closed
- Springfield Public Schools: Closed
- Lowell Public Schools: closed
- Cambridge Public Schools To-hour delay
For a complete list of closings and delays, visit MassLMassLive’sol Closing Tracker. This real-time resource is updated throughout the day as new announcements come in.
How Local Officials Are Responding
Coordinated Efforts to Keep Roads Clear
State and local officials have been working around the clock to mitigate the storm’s impact. Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) crews were deployed overnight to treat highways and major routes with salt and sand. Governor Maura Healey urged residents to stay off the roads if possible.
“This storm has created challenging travel conditions,” said Governor Healey during a press briefing. “WeWe’resking everyone to exercise patience and prioritize safety.”
In addition to road maintenance, emergency services remain on high alert. Fire departments and EMTs are prepared to respond to weather-related incidents, including car accidents and power outages.
Tips for Staying Safe During the Storm
1. Avoid Unnecessary Travel
If your child’s school is closed or delayed, use this opportunity to stay indoors and avoid unnecessary travel. Icy roads can be deceptive, even for experienced drivers. Stick to main roads where possible, and give yourself extra time to reach your destination.
2. Prepare Your Home for Power Outages
Winter storms often bring the risk of power outages, especially in rural areas. Make sure you have flashlights, batteries, and non-perishable food on hand. If you rely on electricity for medical devices, consider contacting your utility provider for assistance.
3. Dress in Layers
For those who must venture outside, dress in warm layers to protect against frostbite and hypothermia. Don’t forget gloves, hats, and waterproof boots.
Parent Perspectives: Mixed Reactions to Closures
Not everyone agrees on whether schools should close during inclement weather. Some parents appreciate the extra day at home, while others struggle to find childcare.
“I’m grateful my kids get a snow day, but it’s tough balancing work and keeping them entertained,” said Sarah Thompson, a mother of two from Worcester.
Conversely, teachers like James Rodriguez see both sides of the issue. “Snow days are fun for kids but disrupt learning schedules. We’ll likely need to adjust lesson plans once schools reopen.”
Looking Ahead: Will Friday Be Another Snow Day?
Forecasters predict another round of precipitation late Thursday night into Friday morning, raising concerns about additional school disruptions. The good news? Temperatures are expected to rise slightly, potentially turning snow into rain by Friday afternoon.
Still, families should monitor updates closely. As always, MassLive will provide real-time coverage of any changes to school schedules.
Final Thoughts: Prioritize Safety Over Everything
While snow days may evoke nostalgia for sledding and hot cocoa, the reality is that winter storms pose serious risks. School closings and delays ultimately protect students, teachers, and families from harm.
As Massachusetts braces for continued winter weather, remember to stay informed, plan, and prioritize safety. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy day indoors or navigating icy roads, take care—and here’s hoping for clearer skies soon!
