Fairfax County decided against any delay or cancellation for its schools on Jan. 6. Though weather forecasts predicted a mere one to two inches of snow, between four and six inches fell on the county, making for treacherous road conditions and slippery sidewalks.
The lack of action from FCPS was followed by uproar and protestation from students, parents and staff, who largely took to Twitter with the worldwide-trending #CloseFCPS.
Worst driving conditions I've ever seen. Disgraceful that FCPS put kids and teachers in harm's way.#closeFCPS pic.twitter.com/77JF1QHLt0
— Jessica Bradley Rushing (@jbradleyrushing) January 6, 2015
Ultimately Fairfax, Prince William and Loudoun counties issued formal apologies to their respective communities.
“A poor decision was made,” senior Sarah Armani said. “I heard about lots of accidents on the news, so they could have at least had a delay.”
According to InsideNoVa, Fairfax County police responded to over 200 accident reports Tuesday morning.
“The school board works with the National Weather Service, so their decisions really coincide with the government,” said Bonnie Shannon, who is the principal’s administrative assistant. “Kids were even calling their parents to come pick them up,” added Shannon.