Massachusetts and New Hampshire School Closures and Delays: Latest Updates

As winter weather continues to impact the Northeast, several school districts in Massachusetts and New Hampshire have announced closures and delays. Snowfall, icy roads, and freezing temperatures have prompted school administrators to prioritize student safety by modifying schedules. Below is the latest information on school closings, delays, and weather-related disruptions for January 29, 2025.

Massachusetts School Closures and Delays

Full-Day Closures:

• Athol-Royalston Regional School District – Due to hazardous road conditions, all schools in the district will remain closed for the day.
• Winchendon Public Schools – Snow accumulation and icy roads have led to a full closure.
• North Adams Public Schools – Officials have decided to cancel all classes due to the continuing winter storm.

Two-Hour Delays:

• Amesbury Public Schools – Schools will open two hours later to allow road crews time to clear streets.
• Ashburnham-Westminster Regional School District – Students and staff are advised to arrive two hours later than usual.
• Gardner Public Schools – Delayed start due to icy road conditions.
• Methuen Public Schools – A two-hour delay is in effect to ensure safe travel for students and staff.

• Haverhill Public Schools – Schools will open two hours late, and morning programs may be affected.
• Lunenburg Public Schools – Families should plan accordingly for the adjusted schedule.
• Narragansett Regional School District – School start times will be pushed back by two hours.
• Newburyport Public Schools – A delay has been implemented due to icy roads and low visibility.

• North Andover Public Schools – A one-hour delay has been announced instead of the standard two hours.

Early Dismissals:

Some districts are monitoring weather conditions and may announce early dismissals if necessary. Parents should check official school communications throughout the day.

New Hampshire School Closures and Delays

Full-Day Closures:

1. Derry Cooperative School District – All schools will remain closed due to dangerous road conditions.
2. Ellis Elementary School – Classes are canceled for the entire day, with no extracurricular activities.
3. Barnard School – A full closure has been announced due to severe winter weather.

Two-Hour Delays:

• Bernice A. Ray Elementary School – Schools will open two hours later than scheduled.
• Crossroads Christian School – Classes will start later in the morning to allow for safer travel.
• Dresden, Hanover - SAU 70 – All schools in this district will have a delayed start.
• Frances C. Richmond Middle School – Families should plan for a later arrival time.

• Hampton School District – Schools will operate on a delayed schedule, with possible program adjustments.
• Hampton Falls - SAU 21 – A two-hour delay is in effect, and morning preschool is canceled.
• Hanover High School – A delayed start has been announced, and students should monitor updates for potential further changes.

Impact on Transportation and Extracurricular Activities

Bus schedules will align with the revised school start times, though some routes may experience additional delays. Parents are encouraged to check local district websites and transportation updates.

After-school programs, athletic events, and extracurricular activities may also be rescheduled or canceled, depending on evolving weather conditions. Students and families should stay updated with school announcements.

Weather Conditions Leading to School Closures

Winter storms have brought snow, freezing rain, and strong winds to the region, creating hazardous travel conditions.

• Boston, Massachusetts: Expect intermittent snow showers, gusty winds up to 45 mph, and temperatures dropping into the teens.
• Concord, New Hampshire: Snow squalls and whiteout conditions are possible, with 1–2 inches of snow accumulation expected.
• Southern New Hampshire: Freezing temperatures and icy roadways continue to make travel difficult.

Local road crews are working diligently to clear highways and residential streets, but slippery conditions remain a significant concern.

Precautions for Parents and Students

• Dress warmly: Subzero wind chills make frostbite a risk for students walking to school or waiting at bus stops.
• Check updates: Monitor school district websites, social media, and local news for the latest closure announcements.
• Plan for alternative childcare: If schools close or dismiss early, parents should have contingency plans in place.

Conclusion

With winter weather affecting daily routines, school districts across Massachusetts and New Hampshire continue to prioritize safety. Parents, students, and staff are urged to stay informed, drive cautiously, and prepare for potential changes throughout the day.