Los Alamos Schools Start Two-Hour Delay Today After Icy Conditions

Los Alamos Public Schools announced a two-hour delayed start for Friday, Jan. 9, citing ice already forming on walkways and in parking lots and more moisture expected overnight with temperatures remaining below freezing. District officials said the delay will give crews time to make sure parking lots and sidewalks are clear and safe for staff and students.

Buses will run two hours later than their usual pickup times. The district outlined adjusted school start times under the delayed schedule: elementary schools, including PreK 4Y, will start at 10:10 a.m.; Mid School will start at 10:40 a.m.; and Los Alamos High School will begin at 10:30 a.m. Morning 3-year-old preschool sessions are canceled at all schools; afternoon 3-year-old preschool will operate on its regular schedule.

The delay affects commuting schedules for families and staff across the county and compresses the morning window for extracurriculars and work-related drop-offs. Parents who rely on district transportation should expect their bus to arrive two hours later than usual and plan accordingly. Employers and caregivers in the community should anticipate later student arrivals and adjust morning coverage where possible.

District guidance emphasizes caution on local roads and sidewalks. Officials advised residents to be vigilant when traveling: "Please be safe in your travels and watch for possible ice on roadways and sidewalks." The district also noted that families should make travel decisions that reflect their individual comfort with inclement weather and local conditions.

School operations beyond the morning delay, including athletic events and after-school activities, were not addressed in the announcement. Families seeking clarification on specific program schedules should contact their child’s school directly. The district’s crews will continue monitoring conditions through the morning and will aim to reopen campus areas for safe use as quickly as conditions permit.

For residents, the delayed start is a reminder of seasonal hazards that can disrupt daily routines. The district’s response prioritizes safety for students and staff while balancing the need to maintain instructional time. Community members should expect normal communication channels to provide updates if weather or road conditions change.