In late January, a significant snowstorm covered Kentucky, leaving a big impact on numerous cities. Lexington was one of the cities that was majorly affected by this storm. Governor Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency for the Commonwealth on January 23, leading to the closure of businesses and schools.
The snow and ice created dangerous conditions throughout Lexington roads, causing complaints among residents. The slick roads made transportation extremely hazardous for everyone, nearly impossible to brake safely without sliding. Due to this, state officials highly recommended citizens to avoid the roads at all times possible at the beginning of the storm. While some of the main roads were cleared quickly, neighborhoods and side roads were undrivable for two or more weeks.
Fayette County found itself facing a two week period without in person school due to this snow. Out of the 14 days, students and staff were out of school, only four of those days were NTI. This left Fayette County scrambling trying to find days during the rest of the school year to make up for them. The University of Kentucky also canceled classes, but went back way sooner than other counties. While other counties surrounding Fayette County also had plenty of days out of school, they were utilizing NTI more than Fayette County, meaning they won’t make up as many days at the end of the school year.
As temperatures rose in Kentucky, the ice and snow began to melt. This made traveling safer and easier for residents and allowed schools to go back and resume daily activities for citizens. Educators have worked on incorporating the missed days back into the calendar.
There was discussion of ending spring break one day early because originally April 13, was included in spring break. After discussion, the school board decided that April 13 would be normal instruction for students. Fayette County has announced that the school year will now end on June 3. These adjustments were necessary to ensure students don’t have to make up more days at the end of the school year.
