NYC Schools Shift to Remote Learning Monday Amid Extreme Weather

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani and Schools Chancellor Kamar H. Samuels announced Sunday that all New York City public school buildings will be closed on Monday, January 26, due to severe winter weather, with classes shifting to remote instruction for the day.

The city’s decision prioritizes safety while maintaining continuity of learning and meeting New York State’s 180-day instructional requirement, officials said. The temporary shift to online instruction will affect approximately 500,000 students across more than 1,100 schools.

“All after-school programs, adult education courses, and other in-person school-based activities are canceled,” the city stated. High school students and middle schoolers enrolled in grades six through twelve will still have their scheduled professional learning day on Monday, meaning no classes for those grades.

“As snowfall begins to blanket our city and conditions become hazardous, closing school buildings is a necessary step to keep New Yorkers safe,” Mayor Mamdani said in a statement. “Over the past week, my administration has prepared for this moment—ensuring devices are in hand, families are informed, and educators are ready to welcome students online. Our school system, and our city, is prepared to weather this storm together.”

Chancellor Samuels echoed the mayor’s emphasis on preparation and safety. “Preparation matters, especially in moments like this,” he said. “I am grateful to our school communities for the work they’ve done over the last several days—from stress-testing technology to securing buildings and getting virtual classrooms ready. This was a difficult decision made with the safety of every family in mind.”

According to NYC Public Schools, staff have confirmed that students have devices and internet access necessary for virtual learning. The Department of Education has coordinated stress tests of its digital learning platforms to ensure smooth performance during the remote day. Families in need of technical support can visit selfservice.schools.nyc or contact their schools directly.

Charter and nonpublic schools will make independent closure decisions, though charter schools located within NYC public school buildings will be closed alongside them.