Aiken Schools Dismiss Early Due to Incoming Snow

News Summary

Aiken County Public Schools have announced an early dismissal for students on January 21 in anticipation of snowfall. Elementary students will leave at 11:30 a.m., followed by middle and high schoolers at staggered times. Afterschool activities will be canceled, and district offices will close early as well. With snow expected to accumulate, residents are advised to take precautions while traveling.

Aiken Prepares for Snow: Early Dismissal Announced for Schools

Hey Aiken, it looks like winter is making a visit sooner than we expected! With snow on the forecast, Aiken County Public Schools are changing the schedule, giving parents and students a heads-up about an early dismissal on January 21. So, grab your jackets and snuggle up because things are about to get cozy!

What’s the Plan?

As of January 20, shortly after 2:53 p.m., the school district shared the exciting news that they’ll be sending kids home earlier than usual to beat the snowstorm. It’s like an unexpected winter break!

• Elementary school students will leave at 11:30 a.m. – just in time for an early lunch.
• Middle school kids get to head home next at 12:10 p.m.
• High school students will finish up at 12:30 p.m. – a nice treat for those older kids joining the slopes!
• Special notes for some schools: Ridge Spring-Monetta and Busbee Elementary students will dismiss at 11:55 a.m., with A.L. Corbett Middle and Wagener-Salley High heading home at 12:00 p.m.
• Students at Ridge Spring-Monetta Middle and High will leave at 12:15 p.m. and 12:20 p.m., respectively.
• The Aiken Scholars Academy gets off a bit early, at 12:00 p.m.
• Heads up to students at the Center for Innovative Learning (CIL) – you’re dismissed by 1:30 p.m.

Don’t worry about breakfast and lunch – those will still be served before the bells ring!

What About the Afterschool Activities?

Let’s add another layer to this weather puzzle! If you have students on half-day schedules, transportation won’t be available for them since buses can’t manage those mid-day routes. And, mark your calendars because all afternoon classes at the Aiken County Career and Technology Center are canceled. Any students enrolled in those afternoon classes will be kept at their high school instead.

The after-school care program through QuestZone won’t be operating, and any events – think sports, clubs, or gatherings – will also be put on pause for January 21.

When Will Everything Close?

Early dismissals mean early closings for everyone! All schools are gearing down, with district offices shutting their doors by 2:00 p.m. and the Operations Center wrapping up by 1:00 p.m. The City of Aiken will maintain regular hours, but all facilities will close by 5:00 p.m.

What’s the Weather Going to Be Like?

As for the white powder making the magic happen? Snow showers are predicted to start rolling in during the afternoon, with about a 60% chance of snowfall. We’re looking at a light dusting, with accumulations under one inch during the afternoon. The fun continues into the evening, as the forecast reports a 80% chance of snow and nighttime lows dipping close to 20°F with about an inch expected. So, it’s officially snowball season!

Cautiously Prepared

We all know that snow can lead to slick roads, so be cautious of possible black ice that could form due to those low temperatures. Travelers should plan ahead and drive carefully.

What Else is Going on in Aiken?

Other local institutions are also getting in line with safety measures. Augusta Technical College will close on January 21, while Aiken Technical College still plans to operate as usual, keeping an eye on the ever-changing forecast. Augusta University has opted for remote learning, canceling in-person activities for the day. And don’t forget about our neighbors in Burke County and Columbia County, where early dismissals are also on the menu.

So, there you have it, Aiken! With the snow coming in hot and heavy, it’s all hands on deck for everyone to stay safe and snug at home. Enjoy the snow and stay warm!

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Winter Weather Advisory Closes Schools and Offices in Aiken County
Aiken County Schools Adjust Schedules Ahead of Winter Storm
Weather Alert: Tropical Storm Helene Causes School Closures in Georgia and South Carolina

Additional Resources

• Aiken Standard: Aiken Schools Early Dismissal Jan 21
• Augusta Chronicle: Augusta Area Schools Open/Closed for Winter Storm
• WRDW: Schools Watch Forecast Ahead of Possible Winter Weather
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Winter Weather
• Google News: Aiken Schools Early Dismissal