School districts across the Houston area are preparing to reopen on Tuesday following widespread closures caused by severe winter weather. Education leaders reviewed weather forecasts and road conditions during a midday meeting of area superintendents held on Monday.
After nearly all public school districts, charter schools, colleges, and universities suspended classes on Monday, the majority have now confirmed plans to resume normal operations. Among them are Houston ISD and Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, two of the largest school districts in Texas, along with nearly 15 other districts.
Houston ISD stated that preparations for the winter storm began last week, with proactive measures already in place. According to a statement released by the district, teams will begin districtwide heating inspections at all campuses starting early Tuesday morning. Officials said most heating systems can be managed remotely, school buses are equipped with heating, and the entire bus fleet has been winterized, including battery checks, fuel refills, and cold-weather safety briefings for drivers.
Tarkington ISD, located in the northeastern part of the greater Houston area, remains the only district currently planning to stay closed on Tuesday. District officials cited a burst pipe that caused significant water leakage and disrupted water service at multiple facilities.
Conroe ISD advised families to use their own judgment when sending students to school, noting that early morning temperatures will be extremely cold during bus pickups and arrival times. Katy ISD, which experienced some of the most severe storm conditions locally, will reopen campuses but said updates regarding athletics, fine arts, and extracurricular activities will be communicated directly by coaches and program directors.
Spring ISD cautioned parents that some bus routes could face delays and encouraged families to allow extra travel time Tuesday morning.
Higher education institutions are also resuming in-person operations. The University of Houston announced its campus will reopen for classes on Tuesday. Lone Star College and Houston City College also confirmed plans to welcome students back. Rice University, which held remote classes on Monday, said all campus services, activities, and in-person classes will resume Tuesday.
Charter school networks are likewise returning to normal schedules. KIPP schools reported no plans to cancel classes across the Houston area, while YES Prep confirmed campuses will be open Tuesday with regular schedules, including after-school programs.
