Families across Nova Scotia are adjusting their Monday schedules after the Halifax Regional Centre for Education confirmed that all HRCE schools will dismiss students early on February 23, 2026, as a winter storm is expected to intensify through the afternoon.
While schools remain open, officials say the decision was made proactively to ensure students and staff can travel home safely before weather conditions deteriorate.
Early Dismissal Details
HRCE confirmed the following changes for Monday:
- Bused students will be picked up two hours earlier than their regular dismissal time.
- Non-bused students will be dismissed at their regularly scheduled lunch hour.
- All After School EXCEL programs, sports, extracurricular activities, and Halifax Regional Arts programs are cancelled.
- Central offices and worksites remain open, though conditions will be reassessed later in the morning.
Parents are encouraged to monitor local updates and ensure students know their revised pickup times.
Weather Forecast Behind the Decision
According to the forecast referenced by HRCE, snow is expected to begin around 12:00 p.m., with conditions worsening throughout the afternoon.
Officials cited several concerns:
- Increasing snowfall accumulation
- Reduced visibility due to blowing snow
- Road conditions expected to deteriorate rapidly during peak dismissal hours
By dismissing students earlier than usual, HRCE aims to avoid transportation disruptions during what could become hazardous travel conditions later in the day.
Transportation Impact
School bus routes will operate on adjusted schedules, with pickup occurring two hours ahead of normal dismissal times. Families relying on bus transportation should plan accordingly, especially in rural or high-exposure areas where blowing snow may reduce visibility.
Parents of non-bused students should also confirm lunchtime dismissal procedures directly with their child’s school, particularly for younger students who may require supervision arrangements.
After-School Programs Cancelled
All after-school activities across the district are cancelled, including:
- After School EXCEL
- School sports practices and games
- Halifax Regional Arts programming
The cancellations are in line with standard winter storm protocols designed to limit travel once snow begins accumulating.
Central Offices Remain Open
While classroom dismissal times are adjusted, HRCE’s central offices and worksites remain open for now. Officials noted that operations will be reassessed late in the morning, depending on how weather conditions develop.
This flexible approach reflects the region’s winter response strategy — keeping schools operational when safe, while prioritizing early dismissals if conditions are expected to worsen during peak travel periods.
Community Advisory
Families are advised to:
- Review transportation adjustments immediately
- Arrange early pickup or childcare if needed
- Monitor official HRCE communication channels for updates
- Exercise caution when traveling during snowfall
Weather in Halifax and surrounding communities can change rapidly, particularly when snow is combined with gusting winds that reduce visibility and create drifting across roadways.
As of now, schools remain open but will dismiss early. Further updates may be issued if conditions intensify faster than expected.
Parents and guardians should remain alert for any additional announcements from the Halifax Regional Centre for Education throughout the day.
