St. Louis Area Schools Adapt to Winter Weather with Virtual Learning

ST. LOUIS, Mo. — As winter weather continues to disrupt daily life, schools across the St. Louis area are adapting with virtual learning days and traditional snow days. Lincoln County first grader Aidance Gnade has been enjoying her extended winter break, sledding at Blanchette Park, but her father, Jeremy Gnade, is ready for her to return to school. “Itu2019s been a long winter break,” he said. “Pretty hectic, they donu2019t ever want to come inside then say theyu2019re cold, but just to be a kid again, I guess.”

Many parents share Gnadeu2019s sentiment. In the Webster Groves school district, a group of parents and caretakers are planning to gather early Wednesday to shovel snow and clear streets to ensure schools can reopen by Thursday. Meanwhile, the Francis Howell School District has opted for a virtual learning day on Wednesday. Superintendent Dr. Kenneth Roumpos explained the decision-making process in an Instagram post, highlighting the challenges of navigating icy and untreated roads.

St. Louis Public Schools will also hold a virtual learning day, while some Illinois districts, including Belleville and Cahokia, have closed entirely. East St. Louis and Edwardsville are transitioning to virtual learning. In contrast, St. Charles City Schools and Rockwood School District are sticking to traditional snow days, with built-in days off to accommodate winter weather disruptions.

As students like Aidance Gnade make the most of their time off, schools and families alike are navigating the challenges of winter weather. “Itu2019s actually fun with my brother, sister,” Gnade said. “I love my whole family.”