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Fairfax County Public Schools is asking residents to clear snow and ice from neighborhood sidewalks and bus stops as the division prepares to reopen schools following a major winter storm.
Persistent cold weather is expected to keep some routes hazardous into next week. Because sidewalks and bus stops fall outside the school system’s control, families are being encouraged to safely help neighbors, coordinate with neighborhood associations and clear problem areas where possible.
FCPS said it cannot remain closed until all the snow and ice melts. The division also asked families to consider carpools or shared rides for students who normally walk and to ensure children are dressed for the cold. Parents and caregivers who believe conditions remain unsafe may keep their students home.
More than 1,000 FCPS employees worked during the storm to prepare school facilities for reopening. Custodial and facilities crews tackled more than 28 million square feet of building space, 40,000 parking spaces and 400 acres of paved areas, often while facing difficult conditions.
Food service employees also distributed 4,030 meal kits to students at seven locations over three days. Administrators, front-office employees and central-office staff handled calls, shared updates and helped maintain operations.
The school system acknowledged that closures disrupt instruction, family schedules, work and student routines. Officials said another update would be provided Sunday.