Catholic Schools Serving Cross Bay Boulevard Families Close for Snow Day, No Remote Learning

Catholic Parish and regional schools across the Archdiocese of New York have announced closures for Monday, January 26, impacting numerous families in the Cross Bay Boulevard communities of Queens. Due to forecasts of significant snowfall and hazardous travel conditions across the region, schools serving areas like Howard Beach, Broad Channel, and Lindenwood, including institutions such as St. Helen Catholic Academy and Our Lady of Grace School, will not hold classes, and crucially, there will be no remote instruction.

This decision stands in contrast to some public school districts which may transition to remote learning during severe weather. For Catholic school families along Cross Bay Boulevard, Monday will be a traditional snow day, allowing children to enjoy the winter weather safely at home, while parents manage the unexpected day off.

Prioritizing Student and Staff Safety Across Parochial Networks

The rationale behind the complete closure, without a pivot to remote learning, is rooted in the paramount concern for the safety and well-being of all students and staff. Many Catholic school students commute from various neighborhoods across Queens, and even from neighboring counties, making travel particularly perilous during a heavy snowfall event. The decision to close outright minimizes the risks associated with commuting in icy and snowy conditions, both for those traveling to school buildings and for staff who often travel significant distances.

Furthermore, providing a true 'snow day' offers families a respite from the academic routine, allowing them to focus on safety and family time amidst the storm. School administrators emphasized that the regional nature of the storm necessitated a unified approach to ensure consistency and clear communication for the wide network of Catholic schools serving the diverse communities connected by Cross Bay Boulevard.

Keeping Families Informed and Prepared in the Cross Bay Area

Parents of students attending Catholic schools near Cross Bay Boulevard were notified of the closures through various communication channels, including school-specific parent communication systems (like ParentSquare), emails, and announcements on school and parish websites. It is essential for families to monitor these platforms for any further updates, particularly regarding the schedule for Tuesday, January 27.

With no remote instruction planned, Monday becomes an opportunity for families to enjoy the winter wonderland safely. However, caution is advised for any outdoor activities, and residents are reminded to stay vigilant regarding travel conditions. Local parishes along Cross Bay Boulevard may also have modified schedules for religious services or community activities, and parishioners are encouraged to check their respective parish bulletins or websites for the latest information. This traditional snow day provides a chance for children to experience the joy of winter while underscoring the community's commitment to safety.

Key Points:

• Catholic Parish and regional schools closed Monday, Jan. 26.
• No remote instruction will be provided; it's a traditional snow day.
• Decision made due to forecasted significant snowfall and safety concerns.
• Impacts families in Cross Bay Boulevard communities like Howard Beach and Broad Channel.
• Parents should monitor school and parish communications for updates on Tuesday's schedule.