Western North Carolina students and families are facing disruptions to the school schedule today, February 23, 2026, as lingering effects from recent snowfall and continued freezing temperatures impact travel conditions. Several school districts have opted for remote learning, delayed starts, or full closures, prioritizing the safety of students and staff. The weather system brought a dusting of snow to some areas on February 22, and forecasts predict continued cold and potentially hazardous conditions, particularly in higher elevation counties near the Tennessee border.
The decision to alter school schedules comes after a weekend of winter weather, prompting officials to assess road conditions and potential risks. Many districts are erring on the side of caution, recognizing that even minor accumulations of snow and ice can create dangerous travel situations, especially during morning commutes. The focus remains on ensuring students can get to and from school safely, or providing alternative learning opportunities when in-person classes are not feasible. Newsbreak reports that the higher elevation counties are facing the most significant challenges.
School Closures and Delays: A District-by-District Breakdown
Here’s a comprehensive look at the current status of schools across Western North Carolina, as of this afternoon. It’s important to note that these conditions are subject to change, and families should continue to monitor official school district communications for the latest updates.
- A-B Technical Community College: Operating on a two-hour delay, starting at 10 a.m. All evening classes are canceled. A decision regarding tomorrow’s status has not yet been made.
- Asheville City Schools: Students will have an optional workday today. The instructional day will be made up on March 27, which is already a scheduled Teacher Workday.
- Avery County Schools: All students will participate in remote learning today.
- Blue Ridge Community College: Closed.
- Buncombe County Schools: Closed.
- Burke County Schools: Status currently unconfirmed.
- Graham County Schools: Status currently unconfirmed.
- Haywood County Schools: Closed, with optional remote learning and a teacher workday.
- Henderson County Public Schools: Operating on a two-hour delay. All morning programs, including childcare services and breakfast, will likewise follow the delay schedule.
- Jackson County Public Schools: Schools are closed, with an optional teacher workday.
- Madison County Schools: Students will participate in remote learning/optional teacher workday.
- McDowell County Schools: Status currently unconfirmed.
- Mitchell County Schools: Closed.
- Polk County Schools: Status currently unconfirmed.
- Rutherford County: Status currently unconfirmed.
- Southwestern Community College: Status currently unconfirmed.
- Swain County: Status currently unconfirmed.
- Transylvania County: Status currently unconfirmed.
- Watauga County: Inclement Weather Remote Learning Day.
- Yancey County: Remote learning day. Students should check their school email, Google Classroom accounts, or ClassDojo for specific instructions from their teachers. Middle and high school assignments may be sent electronically, with students expected to log on with teachers at 11 a.m.
Impact on Students and Families
These school closures and delays impact thousands of students and families across Western North Carolina. While remote learning provides a continuation of education, it also presents challenges for families who may lack reliable internet access or require childcare. The optional workdays and teacher workdays allow educators time to prepare for potential further disruptions and ensure students remain on track academically. Parents are encouraged to check with their individual school districts for specific details regarding meal services and other support programs during these closures.
The Asheville Citizen-Times is continuously updating its coverage of the weather and its impact on the region.
Looking ahead, school officials will continue to monitor weather conditions and make decisions based on the safety of students and staff. Further announcements regarding school schedules are expected as the week progresses. Families should remain vigilant and prepared for potential additional disruptions.
Please share this information with your neighbors and friends to ensure everyone stays informed. We encourage you to abandon a comment below with any updates from your local school district.
