Philadelphia schools have delayed opening Tuesday

With snow on the ground and freezing temperatures forecast, Superintendent Tony B. Watlington Sr. called a two-hour delay for the Philadelphia School District on Tuesday.

The delay applies to both schools and district offices.

Archdiocesan elementary schools in Philadelphia will also operate on a two-hour delay, but archdiocesan high schools will observe a regular schedule with no delay. (Archdiocesan schools in the suburbs typically follow weather-related decisions of their corresponding public school districts.)

“I urge caution when traveling to and from school and work tomorrow,” Watlington wrote in a message to staff and families.

Students will not be marked late if they encounter weather-related transportation delays as long as they bring a note from a parent or guardian; staff weather-related delays will be considered excused.

Any outdoor activities scheduled for Tuesday will also be moved indoors.

» READ MORE: Single-digit temperatures are expected in Philly, after the biggest snow of the season

It is unclear whether the predicted cool weather will have any further effect on the school’s operations.

“We will provide additional weather-related updates as needed,” Watlington wrote. “Otherwise, we look forward to welcoming all students and staff back tomorrow to continue accelerating student achievement!”