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Baltimore City Schools Explains Decision To Open Tuesday

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- While most area school districts surrounding Baltimore closed Tuesday in light of the snow and treacherous road conditions, city schools remained open angering many students and parents.

Dozens of accidents were reported in the area and in Anne Arundel County, where schools also remained open, some students were even involved in the crashes.

Many Baltimore city streets weren't plowed in time for the morning commute and some were untreated as well.

Dr. Gregory Thornton, Chief Executive Officer of Baltimore City Schools, released a statement about their decision to keep city schools open despite inclement weather.

"I understand and share the entire community's concern for the safety of our students," Thornton said in the statement. Parents and guardians can be assured that the decision to open or close schools on inclement weather days is not one that I take lightly."
Thornton said that city school teachers, staff and administrators have to provide the maximum amount of classroom instruction in order for student's to succeed as well as a safe environment, hot meals and other support.
"When bad weather is forecast, the district's senior leadership considers carefully whether to open schools on time, delay opening, or close," Thornton added. "In cases of extreme weather, the decision to delay or close is relatively straightforward. In cases where the weather is unsettled or the forecast is mixed, the decision is more challenging."
He added parents and guardians have the ultimate say in whether or not to send their children to school -- especially if they feel it's unsafe.
They made the decision early in the morning referring to current conditions and the morning's forecast.
"I want to apologize to the students, families, and staff members who experienced difficult travel conditions this morning, but I also want to thank the thousands of teachers, school leaders, and students who attended today for their commitment to teaching and learning," Thornton said. "At City Schools, we will continue to go above and beyond the call of duty to serve our students and families. We will always do our very best to provide a high-quality education for our students. And, parents, you have my assurance that your children's well-being is always foremost in our decision-making process."
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