As winter storms continued on Monday, January 26, many school districts in Central Texas decided to close classes. However, some San Antonio area school districts have decided to stay open, leaving parents with mixed opinions for and against.
Some parents are unhappy with the Poteet Independent School District for keeping schools open during the Texas winter storm. The district issued the decision on Sunday, Jan. 25, saying schools would return to normal on Monday. According to the Facebook post, buses will run on regular schedules.
Gloria Fontenot wrote in the comments that it was too cold outside for her children to go to school. She added that her children told her that their buses often did not have heat. Teresa Salazar also added that her daughter would not go to school because she claimed it was always cold in the classroom no matter what the temperature was outside. Dale Woods said the decision was “very sad.”
Angelica Alderette said: “Unfortunately, please be prepared for the absence.”
Chrussy Perez wrote: “You’re not giving them away to keep them safe, but you’re giving them away to have a fun Strawberry Festival weekend!!!!!! Smh.”
Poteet ISD classes resume
While most comments disagreed with the district’s sentiments, some parents agreed with Poteet ISD. Desiré Guerra thanked the school district for the updated information and stressed that others need to be aware that school may be the only warm place and hot meal another child may need.
“Need to send my kids to Poteet. No reason to cancel school. Good for you Poteet ISD,” Anthony Kassin wrote.
“I’m glad there’s a school that has to stay in session, I’m sure if the weather got really bad they would let out early but it doesn’t look like it, good job Poteet ISD,” added Zina Gomez.
Poteet ISD Superintendent Charles Camarillo told MySA the decision to keep schools open came after conversations and collaboration with other county districts and knowing little to no rainfall was expected.
“The cold itself is not a reason to close. Secondly, every parent has the choice to keep their kids home and there will be no repercussions for doing so,” Camarillo said in an email. “What about those parents who are unable to provide care when they are needed at school or when they are at work? You would think having an option is better than nothing, and a better reason to leave and complain.”
Poteet ISD isn’t the only school to resume classes Monday. Jourdanton ISD and Pleasanton ISD schools remain open Monday.
The cities are in Atascosa County, which is under an extreme cold warning until noon Monday, according to the National Weather Service. Temperatures in the area are expected to drop below 22 degrees around 8am to 9am on Monday. Temperatures will gradually rise into the mid-30s around 3 p.m. before dipping below freezing again by evening. The National Weather Service said re-freezing is possible Sunday night with any liquid or slush still present.
This article was originally published on San Antonio area schools staying open Monday sparks backlash from parents.