Severe Weather Forces School Closures in Northwest Florida
ICARO Media Group
In response to the anticipated severe weather, several school districts in Northwest Florida have announced closures for Tuesday, January 9. The Walton County School District and Okaloosa County School District will be closed, ensuring the safety of students and staff. Additionally, after-school activities in Okaloosa County are canceled on Monday.
Florida State University-Panama City has decided to close their campus and cancel classes on Tuesday, beginning at 10 p.m. on Monday, January 8, and running until 10 p.m. on January 9. Similarly, Gulf Coast State College will delay opening until 11:00 a.m. on January 9.
In Liberty County, Superintendent Kyle Peddie announced the closure of schools on Tuesday. Peddie assured parents that a thorough inspection will be conducted once the storm passes to ensure the safety of students before they resume classes on Wednesday.
Bay District Schools will also be closed on Tuesday, following discussions with emergency management officials and meteorologists. Superintendent Mark McQueen has recommended that the school board meeting still take place at 1 p.m., as it is anticipated that the worst of the weather will have passed by then. Additionally, all extracurricular activities scheduled for Monday and Tuesday are canceled.
Meanwhile, in Gulf District Schools, Superintendent Jim Norton has declared a closure for Tuesday. This decision is based on the strong winds expected in the area, as there are still remnants of damaged trees from Hurricane Michael. Safety regulations prevent school buses from operating when winds reach 35 mph. The district plans to reopen on Wednesday.
Superintendent Steve R. Benton, Sr. confirmed that all Jackson County school facilities will be closed on Tuesday, as wind gusts are predicted to reach 50 mph in the area.
Franklin County District schools will also remain closed on Tuesday and students can expect classes to resume on Wednesday. Additionally, all extracurricular activities and games have been canceled. The Citizen of the Month Celebration has been rescheduled to Wednesday at 1:30 p.m.
Washington County and Holmes County Schools will both be closed on Tuesday, January 9. Personnel and students are advised to stay home for their safety. Holmes County School Board meeting, originally scheduled for 9:00 a.m., has been postponed to 10:00 a.m. on Tuesday.
As the severe weather passes, it is important for individuals to stay updated through official channels, including Everbridge calls and texts, social media, and press conferences. School districts will continue to assess conditions and provide updates regarding any changes for Wednesday.