Officials at Dallas ISD decided to cancel classes on Tuesday due to the potential hazards associated with the freezing temperatures that set in over the weekend.
As previously reported by The Dallas Express, an arctic blast hit Texas, causing temperatures to plummet below 20 in some parts of the state. Gov. Greg Abbott and other state officials advised residents to take necessary precautions and avoid getting on the roads if freezing rain makes them hazardous.
“Due to inclement weather, all Dallas ISD schools, after-school activities, athletic events, and offices will be closed Tuesday, Jan. 16, 2024. We will continue monitoring the weather to determine Wednesday’s plan. For ongoing updates, check the district’s website or social media channels,” the district wrote in a weather update on Monday.
Meteorologists expect it to warm up in Dallas on Wednesday, with a high of 44 and a low around 35. However, temperatures will return to below-freezing on Thursday and Friday night, but no precipitation is anticipated.
Dallas ISD said its staff has been working to make the appropriate preparations to weather-proof its buildings.
“To prevent potential infrastructure damage caused by freezing temperatures, water will be turned off in portables this weekend. Team members will conduct building checks, which would include inspecting boilers, pipes, thermostat set points, and any potential leaks,” the district said.
Despite the district’s seeming astuteness when it comes to weather preparation, Dallas ISD has struggled to provide the students in its charge with a quality education. The district underperformed across several student achievement metrics during the 2021-2022 school year, according to its latest Texas Education Agency accountability report. Only 41% of students scored at grade level on their STAAR exams despite the hard work of the district’s dedicated teachers, and almost 20% of Dallas ISD’s graduating Class of 2022 did not earn a diploma in four years.
