Major school districts close schools Thursday and Friday due to expected winter weather

DALLAS - Dallas, Fort Worth and many other major school districts have already decided to close campuses ahead of the winter weather. Other North Texas school districts are expected to follow suit.

FULL LIST: School Closings & Delays

Dallas ISD made its announcement Tuesday in anticipation of the dangerous driving conditions expected later this week. 

"Due to anticipated inclement weather, all Dallas ISD schools and administrative offices will be closed Thursday, Feb. 3 and Friday, Feb. 4," the district said. "For additional updates, please visit dallasisd.org or the district’s social media channels. Stay warm and safe, and we look forward to reopening schools and offices next week."

Fort Worth ISD made a similar announcement Wednesday morning as meteorologists predicted ice, sleet and snow for Thursday that could still be on the ground Friday.

"To keep our students, staff, and families safe, @FortWorthISD will close on Thursday and Friday, February 3-4, 2022 due to inclement weather conditions," Superintendent Kent Scribner said.

RELATED: What to Expect: Ice, sleet and snow in the forecast for Dallas-Fort Worth

Some parents needed to know as early as possible that school was canceled to call out of work and be home with their kids.

Akerra Gaines has twin first-grade daughters and a pre-k daughter. They’ll keep a routine while home.

"I would need to know a little bit earlier just so I could let my clients know so I don’t lose business," she said.

Dallas ISD’s Robyn Harris believes the superintendent’s early decision gives parents fair notice. 

"It’s not an easy decision to close schools where you’ve got some 140,000 students," she said. "In the best interest of our students and staff, let’s go ahead and take those days."

Some parents fear more missed days will add to pandemic learning loss, but they understand it’s about safety.

"I hope it’s not like how it was last year," said parent Brittany McCoy.

Several other North Texas districts made early announcements Tuesday. Many more will likely decide Wednesday.

"That’s how it is though here, you know. We never know," Gaines said. "It would be snowing one day, and the next day sunny and hot outside."

FOX 4 will have a full list of closings at fox4news.com/closings as they are announced.

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