Ice Cold—New York City Cancels Snow Days
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The pure joy of getting a snow day is no more.
Unfortunately for kids going to public schools in New York City this year, there will be no more snow days, no matter the weather.
During an interview on Fox 5’s Good Day New York, NYC Schools Chancellor David C. Banks declared "snow days," or days when schools are closed due to serious weather or emergency, are a thing of the past.
In the interview, he explained that it's due to the transition to online learning that took place during the pandemic. Banks said, "With the new technology that we have, it's one of the good things that came out of COVID."
The anchors felt for the kids, saying, "Oh no!" But Banks argued that it's for the children's benefit.
He disagreed, noting, "The snow days come down, we want to make sure that our kids are continuing to learn. So sorry kids! No more snow days, but it's gonna be good for you."
During this coming school year, which starts on Thursday, Sept. 8, all public schools will transition to online learning if ever comes a day when school buildings close because of bad weather.
While some people agree with Banks, many others don't, adding that snow days are generally joyful, surprise breaks from school for students.
Some took to social media to voice their disappointment. One person said, "nyc removing snow days is the most foul thing u can do with the advancement of technology."
NBC News anchor Kate Snow argued that snow days are a necessary mental health break for kids. They wrote, "Wait sorry… what?? NYC is cancelling snow days for schools? What about the mental health benefit of getting outside & simply playing for a couple days a year?"
After the news broke, The Today Show debated whether or not removing snow days was a good idea. Two of the anchors believed that even if kids could do virtual learning on snow days, it's unlikely that they will be able to focus well.
One host said, "I think it's unrealistic to expect, if it's snowing outside...kids are not going to stay on their Zoom [call], or math class, they're gonna be outside!"
With the school year just starting up, it remains to be seen whether or not NYC public schools' new rule will find any success.
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