Little Rock, Arkansas – With severe weather expected to hit the state on Wednesday, several school districts across central Arkansas have announced early dismissals to ensure the safety of students and staff.
Officials from multiple school districts have released adjusted schedules for the day, urging parents and guardians to plan accordingly. School leaders emphasized that student safety remains the top priority, and contingency measures will be in place should weather conditions worsen.
In the Little Rock School District, elementary schools will close at 1:30 p.m., while secondary schools will follow at 2:30 p.m.. School authorities have stated that if tornado sirens are activated during dismissal, shelter-in-place procedures will be implemented, and all building doors will be locked until conditions are deemed safe.
The North Little Rock School District has also adjusted its schedule, with pre-K and elementary schools dismissing at noon, middle schools at 12:35 p.m., and high schools at 1:05 p.m. Central office staff will leave at 1:30 p.m. Additionally, there will be no after-school activities, childcare, athletic events, or practices. School officials have made it clear that bus drivers will only drop students off at their designated stops to ensure their safety.
Meanwhile, the Pulaski County Special School District has set dismissal times at 12:30 p.m. for elementary schools and 1:30 p.m. for secondary schools. To accommodate students before they leave, lunches will be provided at all campuses. District office staff will be permitted to leave at 2 p.m.
In Batesville, schools will close at 1:15 p.m., and all after-school activities and childcare services have been canceled. Similarly, Bryant Public Schools will start dismissing students at 1:40 p.m. Parents are encouraged to visit BryantSchools.org for further details on school dismissals.
As weather conditions continue to develop, officials advise families to stay informed through school district websites and local news updates. For the most up-to-date list of closings and delays, visit the Closings and Delays page on local news sources.
Authorities are urging residents to take necessary precautions, stay alert, and have a safety plan in place as storms move through the region.
