Officials said the city had been granted a waiver by the state education department to close schools due to logistical issues with students and staff returning from the midwinter recess, namely because the schools had not distributed remote learning devices before the break.
“Having a traditional snow day is the right thing to do,” said Michael Mulgrew, president of the United Federation of Teachers. He also noted issues with device distribution and travel restrictions due to the severe weather.
Heavy snow and blizzard conditions are expected Sunday afternoon as meteorologists estimate between one and two feet of snow and wind gusts up to 60 miles per hour.
Mamdani’s decision for a classic snow day differs from what he opted for last month. In January, when New York City’s biggest snowstorm in nearly a decade left at least 12 inches of snow on the city’s sidewalks, plazas, parks and public spaces, the mayor required students to take classes remotely.
Classes went largely smoothly, but several families and schools reported technical glitches throughout the day.
As a concession, Mamdani then said, “I know this might disappoint some students. So if you see me, feel free to throw a snowball at me.”
Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels said the safety and security of both students and their families is a top priority. Officials have not shared plans on whether school will be back in person on Tuesday, or if students will learn remotely.
“We’ll see you soon when schools reopen,” Samuels said.
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