FCPS: Buses Wouldn’t Start This Morning

Fairfax County Public Schools decided early on Thursday to close for the day because many buses would not run in the near-zero morning temperatures, the school system said.

On Wednesday, the system had originally planned a two-hour delay for Thursday as temperatures were expected to be close to zero this morning.

FCPS, which received major criticism from the community and eventually admitted making the “wrong call” in remaining open in Tuesday’s snowfall, says this about today’s decision:

The decision to change from a two-hour delayed opening to an all day closing for schools was made today because, as our bus drivers reported to work, it was evident that many of our buses would not start in this morning’s cold weather.

We did not want students waiting in this cold for buses that may be running late because engines wouldn’t start. In addition, the refreeze of snow and ice on residential streets and sidewalks also made walking and travel treacherous.

We understand the change to an all day closing creates problems for many, particularly our SACC families, but we believe this decision is best for our students. Thank you for your support and understanding.

Did FCPS make the right call today? Tell us in the comments.