D.C. decision to open late raises safety questions

WTOP Traffic reports a number of people are walking in the street because the city's sidewalks are glazed over with ice. Side streets in the District also are icy, despite having been treated.

"I can't believe I have school. Why does D.C. always do this?" another texter writes WTOP.

"Schools in D.C. need to think about students safety and health before anything else," texts Maria.

WTOP's Mark Segraves has driven past several public schools on Capitol Hill and has found no signs of anyone clearing the sidewalks.

D.C. Council member Phil Mendelson, who walks his daughter to school every day, says he looks forward to the two-hour delay.

A number of D.C. private schools are closed, as are some D.C. public charter schools.

"Wouldn't we prefer an extra day off, rather than injured students and staff?" one texter writes WTOP.

"DCPS needs to close. Sidewalks and side streets are icy," say another texter.

D.C. Schools Chancellor Michelle Rhee told WTOP on Tuesday the decision-making process is based on whether it is safe for students to get to school.

While the roads are passable, the vast majority of children walk to school in D.C.

Mayor Adrian Fenty's office says another consideration is the hardship imposed on parents who have to work and don't have child care.

Many students in D.C. also receive free or reduced cost meals at school. That has always been a factor in whether schools close.

Another texter defends the city's decision to open schools late.

"D.C. schools should try to stay open because there are kids on free and reduced lunch who won't eat if they don't get to go to school."

"As a D.C. parent, I'm glad schools are open," says another texter.

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