Prince William Co. Schools Change Schedule March 16 Due To Weather

MANASSAS, VA — All Prince William County Public Schools will close two hours early on Monday, March 16, due to forecast severe storms.

The National Weather Service is forecasting a line of severe storms will affect the county late afternoon or early evening on Monday with the potential for significant wind damage with winds greater than 70 mph.

The district said on Sunday that schools will close early to ensure students and staff have time to be home ahead of this line of storms. District officials will monitor conditions throughout the day Monday, as isolated storms may also impact the area.

In the event a tornado watch or high wind watch is issued for the area by the NWS, students and staff located outside of the building or in classroom trailers will be brought into the main building. Should any tornado warnings be issued, schools will follow their crisis management plans and communications will be sent to families.

Related: Severe Storms With Tornadoes, 75 MPH Winds, Snow In VA Forecast Monday

Here's what to know when classes dismiss two hours early:

• At dismissal, buses will operate in regular order (high school, then middle, then elementary).
• Morning preschool and full-day preschool students shall be dismissed two hours earlier than the regular schedule. There will be no afternoon preschool.
• Field trips are canceled. Late activity and athletic bus runs are canceled.
• The after-school School Age Child Care program will not open.
• Lunch is to be served (on an alternate schedule if necessary).
• No after-school or evening activities.

Employees

• All PWCS schools and buildings will close at 4 p.m. School administrators must remain until buses have cleared and dropped off for their school.
• School-based employees whose primary responsibility is working with students (grade 12 staff, teacher assistants, library media assistants, sign language interpreters, and school nurses) may only be excused early by the principal after the children have safely departed the building and grounds. These employees shall only be credited for up to two hours for the early release.
• All administrative staff and all other classified employees (other than those noted above) shall remain on the normal work schedule (until 4 p.m.) or until all buses are clear at their school.
• Classified staff shall not be compensated for more than their daily work schedule as defined by the payroll system, unless they physically work hours beyond their normal workday.
• Essential personnel will receive direction from their manager.