Dallas ISD Closes Schools Amid Winter Weather Warning

DALLAS, Texas – Dallas Independent School District (DISD) has announced the closure of all schools on Thursday, Jan. 9, and Friday, Jan. 10, 2025, due to an impending winter storm. The decision comes as the National Weather Service issued a Winter Weather Warning for North Texas, predicting a mix of snow, sleet, and rain across the region.

DISD officials cited safety concerns as the primary reason for the closure. “Kids have gone to school when it’s cold and a little flurries before, but we can’t handle the ice,” said Chief Operating Officer David Bates. “If we do have snow accumulate, we’ll have some downed tree branches which could affect the power lines. And without power, you have no heat. So, we will look at all those things.”

The forecast predicts 1 to 3 inches of snow in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, with heavier accumulations of 3 to 6 inches expected in northern and northeastern parts of the Metroplex. The wintry mix is expected to transition into heavier snow after sunset on Thursday, potentially creating hazardous road conditions.

Richardson ISD Superintendent Tabitha Branum emphasized the challenges of managing school operations during winter weather. “One of the challenges, for example, for Thursday, is the fact that in the morning our staff and our students may be able to get to school with no impending weather. But by the afternoon, that might be when we see our real challenges,” she said. Richardson ISD, like many districts, must consider the safety of thousands of students who rely on buses or drive themselves to school.

Other districts, including Fort Worth ISD, are monitoring the situation closely but have yet to announce closures. Garland ISD, which operates on a staggered bus schedule, is considering alternative plans such as delayed openings or early dismissals to minimize risks.

The decision to close schools is not taken lightly, as districts rely on updates from the National Weather Service, the Texas Department of Transportation, local law enforcement, and neighboring districts. Safety remains the top priority, with officials weighing the potential for icy roads, power outages, and other hazards.

This winter storm could rank among the largest snowfalls in Dallas-Fort Worth history, with comparisons being drawn to significant past events. As the storm approaches, parents and students are advised to stay updated on district announcements and prepare for potential disruptions.