Montgomery County Public Schools will operate on a Code Yellow two-hour delay on Wednesday, February 4, due to the potential for snow and hazardous travel conditions during the morning commute.
Schools and offices will open two hours late for students and staff. MCPS cited the possibility of up to one inch of snow on roadways overnight, combined with refreezing temperatures, which could create slick and difficult travel conditions. Officials said the delay is intended to allow additional time for road conditions to improve and to give families time to plan. Childcare programs may operate as scheduled, though families are encouraged to confirm plans directly with their provider.
MCPS also thanked the Division of Transportation Services for navigating challenging conditions on Tuesday. More than 50 bus routes were affected by snow and ice, with some roads remaining impassable for school buses. Students on those routes were either unable to attend school or had to find alternate transportation. MCPS reported the affected roads to county officials for further attention later this week.
Under a Code Yellow two-hour delay:
• Schools and offices open two hours late
• Emergency personnel report as directed
• Morning bus routes operate on a two-hour delay
• Field trips and activities beginning at 10:30 a.m. or earlier are canceled, including programs at Thomas Edison High School of Technology
• Infant and toddler appointments before 10 a.m. are canceled; appointments at 10 a.m. or later proceed as scheduled
• Morning PreK, Head Start, and AM PreK Special Education programs are canceled
• Morning, all-day, and after-school childcare programs may operate as scheduled
• Afternoon PreK, Head Start, and PM PreK Special Education programs run on their normal schedule
• Schools dismiss at their regular time
• Community Use programs operate as scheduled
Families with ongoing concerns about bus access are encouraged to report issues through MCPS transportation depots or by contacting the Montgomery County Service Center at 311.
MCPS urged students, families, and staff to allow extra travel time, watch for ice and blocked sidewalks, and use extra caution near bus stops, crosswalks, and school entrances. Officials also reminded families that even if local roads appear clear, conditions may differ elsewhere, potentially impacting staffing and school operations.
An update on Thursday operations is expected by 6pm Wednesday.
