Sumter School District schools will close early on Tuesday, Jan. 21; eLearning on Wednesday, Jan. 22

All Sumter School District schools will close early on Tuesday, Jan. 21, ahead of winter weather forecast to affect the state.

"Due to the strong possibility of inclement weather late Tuesday afternoon that could result in unsafe road conditions, schools will dismiss early on Tuesday, January 21. Elementary schools will dismiss at 11 AM, middle schools will dismiss at 11:30 AM, and high schools will dismiss at 12:30 PM. All after-school activities are canceled," according to Shelly Galloway, executive director of communication and community engagement for the district.

From Galloway on Tuesday, Jan. 21: "Based on information from Sumter County Emergency Management officials, forecasts indicate that our area could receive one to three inches of snow Tuesday evening. With the potential for black ice Wednesday morning created by overnight freezing temperatures, our top priority is ensuring the safety of our students, employees, families and bus drivers traveling to and from school.

Wednesday, Jan. 22, will be an eLearning day.  All schools and office buildings are closed, and all activities, including athletic events and field trips, are canceled. Lessons and assignments will be posted in Schoology. Students will complete eLearning assignments later if they are unable to participate due to power outages, lack of internet service, or other barriers.

To ensure the safety of our students and staff, Sumter School District works in conjunction with emergency management and law enforcement officials when making decisions regarding inclement weather in our community. Although the forecast could change, we wanted to give our families and staff enough notice to prepare. Please stay safe."