Mayor Mamdani and Schools Chancellor Samuels Announce Pivot to Remote Instruction for New York City Public Schools

 

TODAY, Mayor Zohran Mamdani and New York City Public Schools Chancellor Kamar H. Samuels (NYCPS) announced that, due to extreme weather conditions, all NYCPS buildings will be closed Monday, Jan. 26, with instruction continuing remotely.  

 

The decision prioritizes the safety of students, families, and staff while ensuring continuity of instruction and meeting New York State’s 180-day instructional requirement. 

 

All after-school programs, adult education and other school-based programming are canceled. The transition to remote instruction will impact approximately 500,000 students across more than 1,100 schools. For high school students and students in grades six through eight attending schools that serve grades six through twelve, the previously scheduled professional learning day will remain in effect and Monday will remain a day off.   

   

“As snowfall begins to blanket our city and conditions become hazardous, closing school buildings is a necessary step to keep New Yorkers safe,” said Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani. “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.” 

 

“Preparation matters, especially in moments like this,” said Schools Chancellor Kamar H. Samuels. “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, and I thank you for your flexibility.”   

 

Over the past week, schools worked to confirm that students have the tools needed to participate in remote learning, and NYCPS coordinated with vendors to stress-test login systems across digital platforms and a range of scenarios. Schools are prepared to address technology issues if they arise. Students who need technical support can visit selfservice.schools.nyc or contact their school directly.   

 

Charter and nonpublic schools make independent decisions regarding closures. However, charter schools co-located in NYC public school buildings will be closed when NYCPS pivots to remote instruction.