In January, a winter storm brought extremely low temperatures to Kentucky as well as enormous amounts of snow and ice. This winter weather forced FCPS to use 4 snow days and 3 NTI days when school was supposed to resume after winter break, leaving students out of classrooms for over 3 weeks.
According to the National Weather Service, “the first significant winter storm of 2025 brought snow and ice to all of Kentucky, January 5th and 6th of 2025. A deep surface low tracked across southern Kentucky, bringing snow, some sleet, freezing rain and rain to all of eastern Kentucky. ”
This extreme winter weather brought dangerous conditions to Lexington, including fallen trees, weighed down from freezing rain, and exceedingly icy roads.
The icy roads made it impossible for buses and cars to bring students to school safely. Not only that, but it is dangerous for students to walk to school or wait for a bus in below freezing temperatures.
The numerous school cancellations led to many complaints from parents and even a petition to suspend Superintendent Demetrus Liggins’ contract.
The severity of this storm was unusual compared to previous Kentucky winters but this certainly won’t be the last storm like this. Snow days and NTI days are used sparingly and only when the safety of children is at risk. This storm was an example of a necessary reason for such a long break and there will be many more situations in the future similar to this.
