Back to school: Parents say getting kids to class was a challenge
After a snowstorm dumped nearly two feet of snow in The Bronx, public schools in New York City reopened — even as some streets and sidewalks remained snow-covered.
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After a snowstorm dumped nearly two feet of snow in The Bronx, public schools in New York City reopened — even as some streets and sidewalks remained snow-covered.
It is a difficult decision whether to keep schools open after a snowstorm, according to Mayor Zohran Mamdani. He says extending midwinter recess was not an option— for many families, schools provide access to childcare, food and mental health services.
But not everyone was thrilled about heading back.
“I would like to have another day inside home,” one parent told News 12.
Some families said getting to school was the hardest part of the morning.
“It was hard — the traffic, the snow, the car,” another parent said, while others navigated crosswalks still covered in unplowed snow.
Schools Chancellor Kamar Samuels said reopening was necessary after the storm.
“It became clear that we would not be able to get every student what they needed for remote learning before today,” Samuels said.
More than half of students reported to class, but nearly 1,200 teachers called out, meaning many students attended their 100th day of school with substitute teachers.
“I had a substitute, and I was in my friend’s class and I made a dog,” said second grader Noah Carmona.
Parents also raised concerns about snowbanks still lining sidewalks and curbs, making drop-off and pickup difficult.
More than 70 complaints were filed regarding children being unable to reach their school buses, and several routes experienced delays. Still, parents told News 12 conditions were better than during last month’s storm.
