Montgomery County Schools Remain Closed Due to Unsafe Travel Conditions

Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS) announced on Sunday, February 1, 2026, that all schools will remain closed to students on Monday, February 2, due to unsafe travel conditions resulting from a winter storm that impacted the region on January 25. While school buildings are ready to reopen, officials cited ongoing issues with snow and ice removal as the primary reason for the closure. MCPS stated that many neighborhood streets, sidewalks, and bus routes remain unsafe for student transportation.

Schools Closed For Students Monday as Travel Conditions Remain UnsafeSchool Closure/Delay Prediction For Monday, Feb. 2ndD.C. area school closings, delays and other changes for MondayGiles and Lawrence County, Tennessee Schools closed on Monday due to unsafe travel conditions

MCPS emphasized that conditions do not need to be perfect for schools to open, but current conditions do not meet the necessary safety standards. The district highlighted several key issues, including post-plowing snow piles that obstruct visibility and block access to turn lanes, as well as many roads that remain icy and narrow, making them unsafe for buses. Approximately 20% of students walk to school, and many sidewalks are still impassable, forcing students into busy roadways. Additionally, some students with disabilities require door-to-door transportation, which is not feasible under the current conditions.

Schools Closed For Students Monday as Travel Conditions Remain UnsafeD.C. area school closings, delays and other changes for MondaySchool Closure/Delay Prediction For Monday, Feb. 2ndGiles and Lawrence County, Tennessee Schools closed on Monday due to unsafe travel conditions

MCPS is encouraging community members to assist in the snow removal process by clearing sidewalks in front of their homes and reporting roads that still require attention. The school system has set a goal to reopen schools on Tuesday, February 3, but has emphasized that community support will be critical to achieving this safely. All childcare programs are permitted to operate on a regular schedule, although families are advised to confirm with their providers.

Schools Closed For Students Monday as Travel Conditions Remain Unsafe

The decision to close schools in Montgomery County aligns with actions taken by other school systems in the D.C. area, which have also announced closures or delayed starts due to the ongoing cleanup from the recent storm. Nearby jurisdictions, including Frederick County and Carroll County, opened with two-hour delays, while others, such as Howard and Prince George’s counties, opted for closures.

School Closure/Delay Prediction For Monday, Feb. 2nd

In an email to employees, MCPS reiterated the importance of safety in their decision-making process. They noted that while progress has been made in clearing roads, many areas still pose risks to students. MCPS is committed to providing updates on the operational status of schools as conditions evolve.

Schools Closed For Students Monday as Travel Conditions Remain Unsafe

Despite the rationale provided by MCPS, there are likely to be differing opinions among parents and community members regarding the decision to close schools. Some may argue that the conditions are improving and that schools could have reopened sooner, while others may support the cautious approach taken by the district.

Schools Closed For Students Monday as Travel Conditions Remain Unsafe

As temperatures are expected to rise above freezing for the first time in nine days, MCPS will continue to monitor conditions closely and provide updates to the community. The school system aims to resume normal operations as soon as it is safe to do so.

Schools Closed For Students Monday as Travel Conditions Remain Unsafe