Roanoke County Public Schools prepare students and families for possible virtual learning due to incoming storm
Roanoke, Virginia – With the National Weather Service forecasting a potentially severe winter storm for January 24–25, Roanoke County Public Schools are making early preparations for possible school closures and a transition to virtual learning later in the week. District officials say the storm could lead to multiple days of closure, particularly Thursday and Friday.
Learning Plans for Elementary and Secondary Students
To ensure students are not left behind academically if closures occur, Roanoke County schools are proactively sending home learning packets with elementary school students. These pre-planned at-home lesson packets are meant to be used only in the event of virtual learning days. If the school system announces remote learning for Thursday or Friday, students will be expected to complete the assignments in those packets.
For middle and high school students, teachers will assign online work through Canvas, the district’s virtual learning platform. Again, these digital lessons will only be activated if schools switch to online instruction for the end of the week.
Meal Pickups and Family Support
In anticipation of possible hardship during the storm, the district has also announced tentative plans for meal pickup sites. If virtual learning is enacted, several locations will be designated on Thursday where families can pick up meals. These locations will be announced next week if the need arises.
District officials emphasized that students are only expected to complete packet work or online assignments if virtual learning is officially declared on Thursday or Friday.
Families Encouraged to Prepare
Given the storm’s potential to disrupt travel, power, and daily routines across the region, school leaders are urging families to be ready. “This storm has the potential to significantly impact our entire area,” the district stated.
Families are encouraged to visit the Virginia Department of Emergency Management’s website at vaemergency.gov for tips on storm preparation, including how to prepare homes, stock up on supplies, and stay safe during severe winter weather.
The school system says it will continue monitoring forecasts closely and will communicate any updates about closures or remote learning days as soon as decisions are made.
