CPS Cancels Friday Classes Ahead of Snowstorm

Snow blankets cars and everything else in its way on a Chicago street in January 2014. (Maggie Not Margaret / Flickr)Snow blankets cars and everything else in its way on a Chicago street in January 2014. (Maggie Not Margaret / Flickr)

Before the snow even started Thursday evening, Chicago Public Schools took the rare step of canceling all Friday classes.

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This is the first time in more than three years that weather has forced CPS to cancel classes, but with potential snowfall of more than a foot in some areas, district officials made the decision early.


School buildings will remain open and accept any students who do show up, but the district is strongly advising kids to stay home if at all possible.

“Student safety comes first, and the forecasted snow could be dangerous to students during their commutes,” CPS CEO Janice Jackson said in a statement Thursday. “Due to the extent and timing of the snowfall, it is in the best interest of our students’ health and safety to cancel classes tomorrow.”

Heaviest snow totals are expected in the northern suburbs and Chicago, with 6-10 inches or more forecast, according to the National Weather Service. Snow totals decrease south of I-80, with totals expected around 3-5 inches.

More: The latest closures of Chicago-area schools, businesses, daycare centers and organizations from the Emergency Closing Center.

Chicago Public Library and Park District facilities will also remain open Friday. CPS expects snow to be cleared over the weekend and classes to resume Monday. Because of the cancellation, the district will also add an additional day of class to the end of the school year, moving back the year end date to June 19.

Contact Matt Masterson: @ByMattMasterson[email protected] | (773) 509-5431


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