School districts closely watching winter weather forecasts

ATLANTA — Local school systems, parents and students are keeping a close eye on the forecast for Friday’s weather.

Channel 2 Action News reached out to districts throughout metro Atlanta, including in Henry County, to find out about plans for any school closings or early dismissals.

“We will always err on the side of caution,” said Henry County Schools Communication Coordinator, JD Hardin.

School officials throughout metro Atlanta and north Georgia are busy, closely monitoring the weather. That includes constant communication with emergency management agencies to make sure road and other conditions are safe for students and staff.

“Talking with them allows us to get the most up to date information on a routine basis,” Hardin said. “We have multiple meetings at their center.”

Channel 2 Action News reached out to 10 metro area school districts to find out their plans.

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In Cobb County, they'll test road conditions at 3:45 a.m. Friday, and should make a final call by 5:30 a.m.

There are currently no changes in Fulton County.

In Gwinnett County, an operations team will head out around 3:30 a.m. to test road conditions.

Forsyth County school officials are also in close contact with emergency officials and are prepared to switch to online learning, if necessary.

An Atlanta school official said schools will be open tomorrow.

The bottom line, districts throughout the metro said they'll keep student and staff safety first

Parents we spoke with think that's the right call.

“If they say to close school down, that’s fine with me because it’s a little bit safer for the kids,” said parent Ashley Boyd.

“I think it’s better to be safe than sorry, air on the side of caution, always,” said parent Deloria Howard.

Districts are also monitoring the weather for the weekend, after schools are dismissed.

“One thing that we’re concerned about right now is the late night on Friday night potential to see when this might could come in if this is going to impact any extra-curricular activities,” Hardin said.

Cox Media Group