Several school districts across the Indianapolis metropolitan area have announced two-hour delays for Monday, December 15, as dangerously cold temperatures grip Central Indiana. The decision comes after a weekend of snowfall, with early morning temperatures plunging below zero, creating hazardous conditions for students and staff.
Key Takeaways
- Multiple school districts in and around Indianapolis have implemented a two-hour delay for Monday, Dec. 15.
- The primary cause is severe cold, with early morning temperatures reported to be below zero.
- The National Weather Service forecasts that temperatures will not rise into the double digits until at least 10 a.m.
- Parents and guardians are advised to check their specific district's announcements for the most current information.
Frigid Temperatures Create Morning Hazard
Residents across Central Indiana woke up to extreme cold on Monday morning. The National Weather Service issued advisories as temperatures fell into the sub-zero range, a significant safety concern for children who wait for school buses or walk to school.
The forecast indicates that the cold snap will persist through the early morning hours. Temperatures are not expected to climb above single digits until mid-morning, prompting school officials to push back start times to allow conditions to improve and daylight to increase visibility.
Weather at a Glance
Early Monday morning temperatures were recorded below 0°F. The National Weather Service predicted that temperatures would struggle to reach 10°F before 10 a.m., making the morning commute particularly dangerous due to the risk of frostbite and exposure.
Comprehensive List of School Delays
To help families navigate the morning schedule, here is a breakdown of the school districts that have announced changes. This information is based on official announcements made early Monday morning.
Schools on a Two-Hour Delay
The following school corporations and private schools have confirmed they will operate on a two-hour delay. Parents should confirm specific start times with their child's school.
- Cardinal Ritter High School
- Center Grove Community School Corp. (no morning preschool)
- Franklin Community Schools
- Franklin Township Community Schools
- Greenwood Community Schools
- Heritage Christian School
- Indianapolis Public Schools
- Noblesville Schools
- Roncalli High School
- Scecina Memorial High School
- MSD Warren Township Schools
- Westfield Washington Schools
- Zionsville Community Schools
Schools with No Announced Delays
As of early Monday, the following districts had not announced any delays and were expected to operate on a normal schedule. Families in these districts should continue to monitor local news and district communications for any last-minute changes.
- Avon Community School Corp.
- Beech Grove City Schools
- Brownsburg Community School Corp.
- Carmel Clay Schools
- MSD Decatur Township Schools
- Hamilton Southeastern Schools
- MSD Lawrence Township Schools
- Perry Township Schools
- MSD Pike Township
- Plainfield Community School Corp.
- Speedway Schools
- MSD Washington Township Schools
- MSD Wayne Township Schools
Why Districts Delay for Cold
School districts often delay or cancel classes during extreme cold to protect students from health risks like hypothermia and frostbite, which can occur in minutes in sub-zero temperatures. Delays also ensure that school buses, which can have difficulty starting in severe cold, are running properly and that heating systems within school buildings are fully operational before students arrive.
Impact on Families and Morning Commutes
The widespread delays are having a significant impact on the morning routines of thousands of families across the region. Parents are adjusting work schedules to accommodate the later school start, and childcare arrangements are being modified. The staggered start times may also affect traffic patterns, potentially leading to a more compressed and heavier rush hour later in the morning.
Officials urge drivers to be cautious on the roads. While the weekend snowfall has ended, some secondary and neighborhood roads may still have slick spots. The extreme cold can make road salt less effective, increasing the risk of black ice, especially on bridges and overpasses. Motorists should allow extra time for their commute and leave additional space between vehicles.
