School districts closed Thursday

Students from at least three local school districts will get one more day off from school.

Bastrop, Elgin and McDade independent school districts announced that classes are canceled for Thursday, Feb. 2. The announcements came early Wednesday afternoon.

"Due to power outages and damage caused by the storm, and to allow for clean-up, Elgin ISD schools and facilities will be closed on Thursday," said Elgin ISD in an online statement. "All extracurricular and after-school activities will be canceled as well."

Bastrop ISD had hoped to have some classes on Thursday before deciding differently.

"We considered a delayed start for tomorrow," said Bastrop ISD officials, "but due to power outages in the area and the impact of early morning bus travel, we believe it’s in the best interest of all our staff and students to err on the side of caution, which is similar to our neighboring districts."

McDade ISD staff said they were closing Thursday to allow temperatures to rise and keep everyone safe.

Smithville Independent School District will delay classes Thursday as school staff report less winter weather effects in the area compared to neighbors.

"For the safety of all students and staff traveling to school, Smithville ISD will delay start time for Thursday, Feb. 2, by two hours," said district personel on SISD social media.

Smithville's bell schedules will be as follows:

• Brown Primary - 9:55 a.m.

• Elementary - 9:45 a.m.

• Junior High - 9:55 a.m.

• High School - 10 a.m.

Buses will pick up two hours later than usual pick up times.

All Bastrop County school districts were closed Feb. 1 due to icy road conditions and other effects from winter weather sweeping the area this week.