School Closures Continue as Ice Storm Grips North Dallas

Major school districts across North Dallas have announced continued closures Wednesday as a dangerous winter storm maintains its grip on the region, leaving icy conditions that pose significant safety risks for students and staff.

Dallas ISD, which serves numerous families in Preston Hollow and surrounding North Dallas neighborhoods, joined Fort Worth ISD and several other major districts in canceling classes for the second consecutive day. The decision affects thousands of students across the region as freezing rain and sleet continue to coat roads, sidewalks, and power lines with treacherous ice.

“The safety of our students, staff, and families remains our top priority,” said a Dallas ISD spokesperson. “Current conditions make travel extremely dangerous, and we will continue monitoring the situation closely before making decisions about Thursday’s schedule.”

The winter storm, which began impacting the area Tuesday morning, has created particularly hazardous conditions throughout Preston Hollow, where tree-lined streets and elevated areas have become impassable in many locations. Highland Park and University Park have also seen significant ice accumulation, prompting both municipalities to urge residents to avoid unnecessary travel.

Local meteorologists report that the ice storm represents one of the most significant weather events to hit North Texas this winter season. Accumulations of up to half an inch of ice have been recorded in some areas, with continued freezing precipitation expected through Wednesday morning.

The extended school closures come at a critical time in the academic calendar, with many districts already working to make up time lost to previous weather-related cancellations. Dallas ISD officials indicated they are exploring options for addressing missed instructional time, including potential schedule adjustments later in the spring semester.

Transportation has emerged as a primary concern for district officials. School bus routes throughout Preston Hollow and North Dallas typically navigate numerous residential streets that become particularly treacherous during ice events. Many of these routes serve areas with significant elevation changes and mature tree canopies that can create additional hazards when weighted with ice.

The Park Cities, while maintaining their own emergency response protocols, have coordinated closely with Dallas officials to ensure consistent messaging about road conditions and safety measures. This type of regional cooperation mirrors the collaborative approach seen in other local government initiatives between the municipalities.

Beyond the immediate safety concerns, the weather event has highlighted infrastructure challenges facing the region. Power outages have affected scattered areas throughout North Dallas, though utility companies report crews are standing by to address issues as conditions improve.

Plano ISD, Richardson ISD, and Garland ISD have also announced Wednesday closures, creating a unified response across the northern portion of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. This coordinated approach helps families with children in multiple districts and ensures consistent messaging about safety priorities.

Local businesses and organizations have largely followed suit, with many North Dallas employers encouraging remote work arrangements and several community centers canceling scheduled activities. The Preston Hollow area, in particular, has seen numerous local establishments modify their hours or close entirely as a precautionary measure.

Weather forecasters expect conditions to begin improving Wednesday afternoon, with temperatures gradually rising above freezing. However, officials warn that black ice conditions may persist into Thursday morning, particularly in shaded areas and overpasses throughout the region.

The storm’s impact extends beyond immediate travel concerns, affecting after-school activities, athletic events, and community programs throughout North Dallas. Many organizations are working to reschedule events originally planned for this week, though the ripple effects may continue for several days.

District officials emphasize that any decision regarding Thursday’s classes will be made Wednesday evening, following careful assessment of road conditions and weather forecasts. Families are encouraged to monitor official district communication channels and local news for the most current information.

For areas like Preston Hollow, where many families rely on consistent school schedules for work planning, the extended closure creates additional logistical challenges. However, district leaders stress that no risks will be taken with student and staff safety.

The winter weather event serves as a reminder of North Texas’s vulnerability to ice storms, which can create more dangerous conditions than snow due to the weight and slick surface they create. Local emergency management officials continue monitoring the situation and coordinating with school districts on recovery timing.

As the region waits for conditions to improve, the focus remains on safety and patience. School districts across the area have demonstrated their commitment to putting student welfare first, even when facing the academic calendar pressures that come with weather-related disruptions.

Families throughout Preston Hollow and the broader North Dallas area are advised to continue avoiding unnecessary travel and to stay informed through official channels about any updates to school schedules and community services.