National Weather Service shows Tuesday wind chills in -30s
Following criticisms and a public outcry from the Chicago Teachers Union, Chicago Public Schools canceled classes Monday and Tuesday.
While the rest of the city slowly shut down in the face of record-low temperatures, CPS remained steadfast with its decision to “fire up the furnaces” and keep school buildings, safe passages and bus routes operating.
Teachers Union president Karen Lewis quickly took to Twitter to scold the district following a city news conference. Hours later, the district announced schools would be closed Monday. CPS CEO Barbara Byrd-Bennett announced during a press conference Monday that classes would also be canceled Tuesday.
Officials warned of a “dangerous arctic outbreak” approaching Chicago, with high temperatures near only -9 degrees.
But Chicago Public Schools initially told parents Friday that buildings would be open for instruction. Safe Passage workers would have used “warming vehicles” throughout their shifts.
The airmass will be the coldest in 20 years, and winds of 15-30 mph will make it feel 30-50 below, according to the weather service.
CPS students who stayed home would have gotten excused absences, the district said.
“Building engineers will fire up the furnaces on Sunday to ensure a safe warm learning environment,” an automated message from the district’s winter weather hotline told callers.
For more winter weather updates from CPS, call the hotline at (773) 553-1000. Parents can also visit CPS.edu or follow local news for last minute updates.
See the 7-day forecast.
