You wake up, glance at the thermometer, and see that biting "Colorado cold" staring back at you. If you live in the Pikes Peak region, your first instinct isn't to grab coffee. It's to check the "red bar" at the bottom of the local news screen.
Honestly, the dance of schools closed in Colorado Springs is basically a local sport at this point.
This week has been a weird one. We didn't get the massive, "bury-your-Subaru" blizzard some were whispering about at the King Soopers checkout line. Instead, we dealt with a bizarre mix of high-wind warnings and bone-dry humidity that kept everyone on edge.
The Current Status: Is School Out?
Right now, as of Saturday, January 17, 2026, students across the city are enjoying their weekend. But the big question on everyone's mind—especially with the Red Flag Warning issued by the National Weather Service in Pueblo—is what happens when Monday rolls around.
The wind is no joke today. We're talking gusts up to 50 mph.
Usually, when people search for closures here, they're looking for the "Big Three": District 11, Academy District 20, and Harrison District 2.
- District 11 (D11): They've been on a roll with their new orientation schedules this month. Students just got back into the groove on January 7.
- Academy District 20 (ASD20): Known for being a bit more cautious because of those northern elevations (looking at you, Briargate and Black Forest), they have a five-day "traditional snow day" bank.
- Harrison District 2 (D2): They generally stay pretty consistent with the city's central weather, but they’ve got a massive 8th Grade Discovery Day coming up next week that parents are watching closely.
Why the "Wind Day" is the New Snow Day
We've all seen it. The sun is shining, there's not a flake of snow on the ground, and yet—bam—the district calls for a two-hour delay or a full closure.
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Why?
Buses.
Basically, a yellow school bus is just a giant metal sail. When those 50 mph gusts hit Woodmen Road or the I-25 corridor, keeping those vehicles in their lanes is a nightmare for drivers.
Safety isn't just about ice; it's about stability.
What Most People Get Wrong About Closures
A lot of folks think the Superintendent just looks out their front window at 5:00 a.m. and makes a guess.
In reality, it's a massive logistical grind.
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In District 11, for instance, they have "scouts" who are actually out driving the roads in the middle of the night. They're checking the hills near Cheyenne Mountain and the side streets in Old Colorado City.
If the buses can't make the turn on a slushy incline, nobody goes to school.
"Reopening decisions are guided by verified information... to ensure the health and well-being of students and staff."
That's the corporate way of saying: "We don't want a bus sliding into a ditch."
The "Boil Water" Confusion of 2026
If you've been following the news lately, you might have seen some headlines about massive school closures due to water main breaks.
Wait.
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Before you panic—that was El Paso, Texas, not El Paso County, Colorado.
It’s a classic Google mix-up. People see "El Paso ISD" and "Water Main Break" and think Colorado Springs is drying up. Nope. Our neighbors down south in Texas had a rough week with schools like Canyon Hills and Park Elementary closing because of a major pipe burst, but here in the Springs, our pipes (mostly) behaved this week.
How to Check for Schools Closed in Colorado Springs
Don't rely on a Facebook post from your neighbor's cousin.
- The FlashAlert System: This is the gold standard. Most districts push their primary data here first.
- The "Big Three" Websites: D11.org, ASD20.org, and HSD2.org.
- Local Radio: KILO 94.3 or KRDO usually have the scroll running before you’ve even finished your first cup of joe.
Actionable Next Steps for Parents
Look, the wind is going to stay high through this evening.
Check your district's Weather Dial. Widefield District 3 actually uses a physical "dial" graphic on their site to show how many snow days they have left.
If you're in D20, remember they transition to "remote learning" only after they've burned through their five traditional snow days.
Keep your devices charged. High winds in the Springs often mean power flickers, and there’s nothing worse than your alarm clock resetting at 3:00 a.m. and missing the "Delayed Start" notification.
Check the forecast for Monday morning around 9:00 p.m. Sunday night. That's usually when the "pre-check" happens.