Carroll County Public Schools have announced that the schools will reopen on Wednesday, Feb. 17 — but will start two hours late for that day, and the rest of this week.

CCPS Superintendent Dr. Charles Ecker said the main reason for the delay is because sidewalks and school bus waiting areas aren’t completely clear of snow from last week’s blizzards, and he wants to make sure children aren’t waiting for the buses standing in the roadways while morning rush hour traffic is still passing by.

“Because of walking conditions, schools in Carroll County will open two hours late on Wednesday, Feb. 17, Thursday, Feb. 18 and Friday, Feb. 19," wrote Ecker in a letter to parents and staff.

"A delay of two hours will have children walking and waiting at bus stops after the commuter traffic has gone.
 
"It is important that all school parking lots, driveways, and bus loops be cleared before schools open. Our crews are working to see that this is completed by Wednesday.

"As schools reopen, we must all work together to ensure the safety of our students — especially those students who walk to and from school and to and from bus stops," Ecker said.

Ecker also asked parents to:

• Use caution and drive slowly when out on the roads, especially at intersections where views may be obstructed by snow piles.

• Shovel sidewalks and provide a safe area off the street where students can wait for their buses.

• Remind students to exercise caution when walking to the bus stop or school. Students should allow extra time to walk to their destination and use caution in and around intersections due to the height of snow at these locations.

• When possible, parents should provide supervision for walkers or students waiting at bus stops, particularly young students.

• Use caution on school sidewalks and parking lots. Employees should be aware that parking may be restricted because of the snow piles in parking lots.

Ecker also said there may be delays in buses due to the conditions.

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