HCPSS Inclement Weather Closing Processes and Updates (Jan. 29, 2026)

January 29th, 2026

The following is to provide information on Howard County Public School System (HCPSS) inclement weather days, specifically the decision process and making up days used.

Decision Process:

The process for deciding whether to delay or close schools is extensive and involves numerous considerations. More information can be found online.

Among the HCPSS readiness markers are:

• Cleared parking lots
• Cleared/accessible sidewalks and pathways
• Accessible bus stops
• Readiness of school buildings

The large quantities of snow and ice, and the temperatures that have remained below freezing since the storm have made cleanup particularly challenging. Safety will continually remain our top priority when determining when to reopen schools, so it is imperative that roadways, walking paths, and sidewalks are cleared of snow and ice. While HCPSS staff prepare to open school buildings and surrounding areas, the school system depends on the County and Howard County communities to clear non-HCPSS property that students access.

Several Maryland counties implement virtual instructional days rather than close for inclement weather. HCPSS does not qualify for virtual instruction because the school system does not provide all students with a technology device. Only districts that provide 1-to-1 devices to all students and have had a virtual instructional plan approved by the State may consider virtual instructional days.

Current Status:

The HCPSS 2025-2026 calendar includes three inclement weather makeup days. At this point, HCPSS schools will have been closed four days with Friday, Jan. 30 being closed for students.

Makeup Days:

HCPSS leadership and the Board of Education will decide how to proceed once we near the end of winter and the likelihood of inclement weather diminishes. Decisions will be made in alignment with the Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR), which provides clear guidance on districts pursuing waivers. Generally, to qualify for waivers, the school system must:

• Develop a calendar that includes an appropriate number of inclement weather makeup days based on past experience. (HCPSS has done this.)
• Modify the calendar by extending the school year up to three days beyond those that were designated as inclement weather makeup days in the original calendar.

Once these two criteria are met, the Maryland State Board of Education may waive additional inclement weather days. The only modification to the criteria would be that if the final day of school for students falls on a Monday, the State Board of Education may waive that day.

At this point, there is no consideration to deviate from the guidance provided in COMAR.

HCPSS thanks all its parents/guardians, families, students and staff for your patience and understanding during this challenging time.