Chicago Public Schools Cancels Classes for Thursday, January 31, 2019
29 January 2019
Weather Forecast of Extreme Temperatures Presents Hazard During Potential Trip to School
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Tuesday, January 29, 2019
Key Points:
- TUESDAY: All after-school events remain canceled.
- WEDNESDAY: Classes and after-school activities are canceled on Wednesday, January 30, 2019.
- THURSDAY: *UPDATE* Classes and after-school activities are canceled on Thursday, January 31, 2019.
- FRIDAY: Friday is a previously-scheduled non-attendance day for students; staff is expected to report to school on Friday.
CHICAGO - Chicago Public Schools (CPS) is canceling all classes and school activities scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday (January 30 and 31, 2019) due to a forecast of extreme temperatures far below freezing, which could present a hazard to children traveling to and from school. CPS buildings will be closed on Wednesday and Thursday due to the extreme weather conditions, and the district is strongly encouraging all students to remain indoors for their safety.
“The safety of students remains the most important factor in making these decisions, and since temperatures are expected to stay at dangerous levels through Thursday, we are canceling school to ensure families have ample time to plan ahead,” said CPS CEO Dr. Janice K. Jackson.
The district is notifying parents of the closure through its regular communication channels via robocalls, emails, social media platforms and through media outlets. Parents can also call (773) 553-1000 or visit the CPS website for more information.
Students and families are strongly encouraged to stay inside due to the extreme cold. If families need alternate options, the Chicago Park District will be offering warming centers throughout the city. Specific locations and hours can be found at www.chicagoparkdistrict.com.
Due to the cancellation, CPS intends to add two additional instructional days to the end of the school year to ensure students receive the full 178 instructional days on the district’s calendar. The calendar update must be approved by the Board of Education and would move the final instructional day of the school year to Thursday, June 20.
Chicago Public Schools serves 361,000 students in 644 schools. It is the nation’s third-largest school district.