Update
WAYNE COUNTY, N.C. — Wayne County Public Schools officials have updated their plans for Monday as the forecast for severe weather has worsened, announcing that all schools will now be closed for students and staff on Monday, March 16.
The district had initially planned to dismiss schools three hours early, but the decision was changed as updated forecasts showed changing storm timing and increasing severity expected to impact the area.
School leaders said the closure is being made to prioritize safety.
“The safety of our students and staff is our top priority,” the district said in its announcement. “This decision helps ensure our campuses remain clear and that students and staff are safely at home.”
Officials emphasized that the closure reflects the most current update from the district as they continue monitoring the developing weather situation.
Parents and staff are encouraged to stay alert for any additional announcements from the district regarding school operations later in the week.
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WAYNE COUNTY, N.C. — Wayne County Public Schools will dismiss all schools three hours early on Monday, March 16, due to the threat of severe weather expected to move into the area later in the day.
School officials announced the decision Sunday as forecasters warned of strong storms capable of producing dangerous straight-line winds arriving late Monday afternoon.
In addition to the early dismissal, all after-school programs, events, and extracurricular activities scheduled for Monday have been canceled.
District leaders said the move is being made out of an abundance of caution to protect students and staff.
“The safety of our students and staff is our top priority,” the district said in its announcement.
The early release is intended to ensure that school campuses are cleared and that buses are safely off the roads before storms and strong winds potentially impact the area.
Parents and guardians are encouraged to plan accordingly for the earlier dismissal time.
