Jackson County Schools Close Amid Extreme Winter Weather

JACKSON COUNTY, Mich. — Extreme winter weather has forced multiple school districts in Jackson County to cancel classes on Tuesday, Jan. 21, as temperatures plummet to dangerous lows. School officials announced the closures early Monday evening, citing safety concerns for students and staff.

Among the affected districts are Columbia School District, Concord Community School District, East Jackson Community Schools, and Grass Lake Community Schools. Jackson Public Schools and the Jackson County Intermediate School District have also canceled classes, including special education programming. The Jackson Area Career Center will remain closed for daytime activities, though evening programs will proceed as scheduled.

Other districts announcing closures include Hillsdale Community Schools, Leslie Public Schools, Michigan Center School District, Napoleon Community Schools, Northwest Community Schools, Springport Public Schools, Stockbridge Community Schools, Vandercook Lake Public Schools, and Western School District. Officials emphasized that the closures are a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of students and staff during the severe weather conditions.

“The safety of our students and staff is our top priority,” said a spokesperson for Jackson Public Schools. “With temperatures expected to remain dangerously low, we believe it is in everyone’s best interest to cancel classes.”

Residents are encouraged to monitor local news outlets and school websites for updates on potential additional closures or delays. The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for the region, warning of wind chills that could drop to -20 degrees Fahrenheit or lower.

For more information on school closures or to report a closure, contact 315-470-2265. Stay updated on local news by bookmarking the Jackson-area news page or signing up for the free daily newsletter.