Full Breakdown
Impact of Blizzard on School Closures in New Jersey
2/24/2026, 12:09:05 AM
Overview of School Closures
A significant winter storm that struck New Jersey over the weekend has led to widespread school closures across Monmouth and Ocean counties. The blizzard deposited nearly two feet of snow, prompting various school districts to cancel classes on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, to allow time for snow removal and ensure the safety of students and staff.
Affected School Districts
Numerous school districts have announced closures, including:
- Monmouth County: Asbury Park, Belmar Elementary, Bradley Beach Elementary, Fair Haven Schools, Freehold Borough, Freehold Regional High School District, Howell Township, Keansburg, Keyport, Little Silver, Long Branch, Manalapan-English Regional, Manasquan, Marlboro Township, Monmouth Beach, Monmouth County Vocational, Neptune Township, Oceanport, Red Bank Borough, Red Bank Charter, Red Bank Regional, and Rumson School District.
- Ocean County: Barnegat Township, Berkeley Township, Brick Township, Central Regional, Eagleswood Elementary, Jackson, Lacey Township, Lakehurst Elementary, Lakewood Public School District, Little Egg Harbor, Manchester Township, Ocean County Vocational Technical Schools, Ocean Township, Pinelands Regional, Plumsted Township, Seaside Heights' Hugh J. Boyd Jr. Elementary, and Toms River Regional Schools.
In addition to closures, many districts have canceled after-school activities and events, with some implementing delayed openings for the following day.
University Closures
Rowan University also announced the closure of all campuses from 5 p.m. on February 22 through February 23 due to the storm. Classes were canceled, and non-essential employees were not required to work. Essential staff were instructed to coordinate their schedules with supervisors. Certain facilities, such as the Wellness Center and recreation facilities, remained open for on-campus students.
Official Statements & Responses
School officials emphasized the importance of safety in their decisions to close. Many districts communicated that the closures were necessary to ensure that maintenance staff could adequately clear snow from school grounds.
Criticism & Opposition
While the closures were largely accepted as a precautionary measure, some parents expressed concern over the impact on students' education and extracurricular activities. They noted that repeated closures could disrupt learning and affect schedules.
What's Next
As the region begins to recover from the storm, school districts will assess conditions and determine when it is safe to resume classes. Parents and students are advised to stay informed through official district communications regarding any further updates or changes to the school schedule.
