OCS Family Updates – Winter Storm Warning – January 23, 2026

As severe winter weather approaches, we hope our families and community are prepared to handle the storm safely. We also want you to know how OCS is ready for whatever may come, and we will keep you informed of any potential changes as the weather situation unfolds.

Winter Storm Warning

The National Weather Service has placed our area under a Winter Storm Warning from Saturday through Monday. The Governor of North Carolina has declared a state of emergency as everyone prepares. Please take precautions now for your family and anyone who may need assistance during and after the storm. Register for OC Alerts from Orange County at www.ocalertsnc.com, and stay informed on the Ready Orange page at readyorange.org. 

No Decision on School Schedules

No decision will be made about next week’s schedule until we can assess the impact from the winter storm.

Schools have already sent home materials for three or more days of possible remote learning. However, in the event of widespread power outages, we will reassess based on the impact to our students, families, and staff.

Preparing Our Campuses

Our OCS Operations teams are busy making our campuses safe and setting everything in order to reopen safely when the weather allows.

Here are just some of the ways we have been preparing:

• Staying in close contact with state and local authorities
• Staging equipment such as skid steers, spreaders, and plenty of ice melt
• Testing backup generators for network access and cafeteria storage
• Salting sidewalks and parking areas that freeze or stay shaded
• Filling fuel trucks in case OCS is called to assist with emergencies
• Coordinating with county officials in case schools are needed for emergency shelter

Thank you to our amazing school teams and OCS Operations staff for doing whatever it takes to be ready for winter weather!

Winter Weather Information

• Check our Inclement Weather page at orangecountyfirst.com/weather 
• Watch our Weather Decisions video at bit.ly/ocsweatherdecisions 
• Register for OC Alerts from Orange County at www.ocalertsnc.com
• Stay informed on the Ready Orange page at readyorange.org 
• Public Shelter: Anyone who is in need (no questions asked), visit readyorange.org for locations and details.

OCS Attendance Week Postponed One Week

While no decision has been made for school schedules, our first-ever OCS Attendance Week will be postponed to the week of February 2 through February 6, 2026.

During this week, we will share valuable information and resources to help you navigate your experience in Orange County Schools as you prepare for success in life after graduation. Whether you head straight into employment, enlist in the military, or attend a 2- or 4-year college – showing up consistently now will get you where you want to be!
 

 

 

We look forward to sharing important information about how being at school every day makes a difference for students in every grade!

Mark Your Calendars

• Monday, January 26: The Board of Education Meeting will be fully remote. Check the Board of Education page and follow the meeting livestream on YouTube.
• Thursday, January 29: K-8 Math Night, OCS Family Academy at New Hope Elementary
• Tuesday, February 3: Neighborhood Listening Session, Efland Cheeks Community Center

Have a great night and stay safe!
Orange County Schools