Kansas City Schools Cancel Classes Amid Severe Winter Weather

KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Due to ongoing severe winter weather, multiple school districts in the Kansas City metropolitan area have announced closures and cancellations for Thursday, February 20. The decision comes as heavy snowfall and extreme cold temperatures affect travel and safety conditions.

As of 6:55 PM CST on February 19, a comprehensive list of school closures has been compiled. Among the prominent districts closed are Blue Springs R-IV, Kansas City Public Schools, and Olathe Public Schools, which reported hazardous road conditions.

More than 20 inches of snow have accumulated in the region thus far this winter, leading districts to prioritize the safety of students and staff. “The safety of our students is our highest priority, and we must take precautions,” said a spokesperson for the Kansas City MO Public Schools.

Several districts have opted to switch to virtual learning to mitigate disruptions. Those include Academy for Integrated Arts and Donnelly College, both of which will conduct classes online instead of in person. “We are adapting to the conditions by switching to virtual classes to ensure our students can continue their education,” stated the principal of the Academy for Integrated Arts.

Some school districts have opted for delays rather than full closures. Atchison County USD 377 and Turner USD 202, for instance, have announced two-hour delays, allowing roads to clear before students arrive.

In addition to school closures, municipal services across the area have also been affected. Many local government offices have closed, and warming centers have opened to assist residents in need. The city of Lee’s Summit designated several community centers as warming locations for those seeking refuge from the cold.

Weather experts predict that the snow and cold temperatures will persist, with forecasts indicating additional snowfall through Tuesday evening. The National Weather Service recorded a wind chill as low as -22 degrees in Kansas City, contributing to dangerous travel conditions.

The public is advised to avoid unnecessary travel and monitor road conditions. Missouri State Highway Patrol has urged drivers to keep their vehicles cleared of snow and equipped with winter safety kits, including food, water, and emergency supplies.

While the winter weather poses challenges, the community continues to rally to support those affected. Emergency services are operating normally, and city officials are coordinating responses to enhance public safety during this winter storm.