MCPS today sent a message to the community regarding winter weather and the color-coded statuses that are issued when there is inclement weather. A video (available below) featuring superintendent Dr. Thomas Taylor also accompanied the message and some have wondered if the video implies that decisions would be made earlier than usual for the school district.
Snow day decisions aren’t easy, especially when winter weather is in the forecast but hasn’t yet fallen. Sometimes, the decision comes just a couple hours before school is scheduled to start– leaving families and staff scrambling. In the video, MCPS Chief of Schools Peter Moran says, “Let’s announce this ASAP, so families and staff can prepare” followed by what appears to be a nod of approval by superintendent Dr. Thomas Taylor. While there is no certainty that this means decisions will be made earlier, it shows that making an early decision is important to the district.
Full message from MCPS: “Winter is coming, and MCPS has your back with information on how to Stay Connected to get the latest information on weather delays and closures. Keep your contact information up-to-date: Visit the ParentVUE link on the MCPS Community Tech Support website. Know the Color-Coded Statuses:
- Green: Normal Operations
- Yellow: Delayed Opening
- Blue: Early Dismissal
- Red: Closed
- Orange: Modified Virtual Instruction