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NJ Winter Storm Causes Widespread School Closures

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  Published in Politics and Government on Monday, February 23rd 2026 at 2:31 GMT by Patch
      Locales: New Jersey, UNITED STATES

Monday, February 23rd, 2026 - A significant winter storm is currently impacting the state of New Jersey, leading to widespread school closures, delays, and a hazardous commute for residents. As of 7:15 a.m. this morning, numerous school districts have announced modifications to their schedules, ranging from full closures to remote learning days and delayed openings. The storm is bringing heavy snowfall, coupled with strong winds and the potential for icy conditions, creating dangerous travel conditions throughout the state.

Current School Status (as of 7:15 AM EST):

Here's a breakdown of the reported school impacts, by county:

• Bergen County: Both Ridgefield Park Public Schools and the Ridgefield School District have opted for full closures today.
• Burlington County: Medford Public Schools are closed for the day.
• Essex County: Montclair Public Schools will operate on a remote learning schedule, allowing students to continue their education from home.
• Hudson County: North Bergen Public Schools have announced a two-hour delayed opening.
• Mercer County: Trenton Public Schools will utilize remote learning for all students.
• Middlesex County: Woodbridge Township Public Schools are operating on a two-hour delay.
• Monmouth County: The Freehold Regional School District is also implementing a two-hour delayed opening.
• Morris County: Mountain Lakes Public Schools are closed.
• Passaic County: Clifton Public Schools will begin classes two hours late.
• Somerset County: Franklin Township School District students will participate in remote learning.
• Union County: Elizabeth Public Schools have closed for the day.

Ongoing Situation & Importance of Staying Informed:

This list is not exhaustive and is subject to change as the storm progresses. School officials are continually monitoring the conditions and making decisions based on the safety of students and staff. Residents are strongly urged to check with their local school districts' websites, social media pages, and local news outlets for the most up-to-date information. Many districts utilize automated notification systems (email, text messages) to communicate critical updates - ensuring enrollment in these systems is highly recommended.

Travel Concerns & NJDOT Response:

The storm isn't just impacting schools. The combination of heavy snow and strong winds is significantly reducing visibility and creating slick road surfaces. The New Jersey Department of Transportation (NJDOT) has mobilized its crews, deploying plows and salt trucks to clear and treat roadways. However, officials warn that travel is strongly discouraged unless absolutely necessary.

"We are urging motorists to exercise extreme caution if they must travel," said a spokesperson for NJDOT in a statement released earlier today. "Road conditions are deteriorating rapidly, and visibility is severely limited. Please allow extra travel time, reduce your speed, and maintain a safe following distance."

Looking Ahead: Potential for Further Impacts:

The National Weather Service (NWS) has issued a Winter Storm Warning for the entire state, predicting continued snowfall throughout the day. Accumulations are expected to vary across the state, with some areas potentially receiving over a foot of snow. Strong winds will persist, leading to blowing and drifting snow, further complicating travel. Power outages are also a concern, as heavy snow and strong winds can bring down power lines. Utility companies are preparing for potential outages and have crews on standby to respond to any reported issues.

Beyond Immediate Disruptions: Long-Term Considerations:

This storm highlights the increasing frequency and intensity of winter weather events potentially linked to climate change. School districts are increasingly evaluating their emergency preparedness plans and investing in technologies that support remote learning capabilities. The successful implementation of remote learning days, as seen with Montclair and Trenton Public Schools, demonstrates the growing importance of digital infrastructure in mitigating the impact of weather-related disruptions. Moreover, this event underscores the necessity of proactive planning by both public and private entities to ensure public safety and minimize economic impacts during severe weather events. Continued investment in snow removal equipment, road treatments, and reliable communication systems will be vital in the years to come to effectively respond to these challenges.