Emergency Information → Emergency Closure of Schools

Emergency Closure of Schools

MCPS Operating Status and Color Codes

Normal Operations

All schools and offices are open on time,

Two Hour Delay

When schools are delayed, the announcement is made no later than 5:00 a.m. (or the night before if possible).

Schools open two hours late, and all operations, including bus transportation, are delayed by two hours from the regular schedule. Full-day kindergarten will follow the regular education school schedule.

Morning Head Start and morning prekindergarten are canceled. Field trips and other activities and programs that begin at 10:30 or earlier (such as the Thomas Edison High School of Technology) are canceled.

Early Dismissal

When schools are closing early, the announcement is made by 11:00 a.m.

Schools close 2.5 hours early, and all operations affecting dismissal of students, including bus transportation, will be activated 2.5 hours earlier than the regular school closing time.

Full-day kindergarten will follow the regular education school schedule. Students in morning Head Start and morning prekindergarten will be dismissed at 10:30 a.m. Midday Head Start and afternoon prekindergarten are canceled. School and community activities for the afternoon and evening are canceled.

Schools Closed/Offices Open

When schools are closed and offices are open, all school and community activities are canceled, including athletic practices and events. Private childcare providers in schools may elect to stay open.

School System is Closed (Schools closed/Offices closed)

When the school system is closed, all schools, administrative offices and community activities are canceled, including athletic practices and events. Private childcare programs are also canceled.

Virtual Learning Day

Transitioning to virtual learning is considered when the impacting event is predictable, part of a multi-day scenario such as a blizzard, or when prior communication with families, students and staff can take place. The decision to offer virtual learning will be announced by noon the day prior. Messages from schools will remind families that it is a required school day and how to log in to classes. In order to allow time for students and staff to adjust, log in and access resources on an inclement weather virtual learning day, all instruction will begin two hours later than the school's normal bell schedule. There will be a minimum of four hours of synchronous instruction. Attendance will be taken. Students who are unable to connect will receive an excused absence, and given an opportunity to make up work.

Learn more about Virtual Learning days

After-school and weekend activities

Go to Montgomery County web site for information about cancellation of after-school or weekend activities