There is no single temperature where school is always canceled everywhere; it depends on your local district’s policy and the wind chill, not just the thermometer reading.
Typical cold-weather thresholds
Many U.S. districts start seriously considering delays or closures when the wind chill is around −20∘-20^\circ −20∘F to −35∘-35^\circ −35∘F, because frostbite can develop on exposed skin in a short time at those levels. Some specific districts use benchmarks like about −20∘-20^\circ −20∘F wind chill for possible closure, while others wait until roughly −25∘-25^\circ −25∘F to −35∘-35^\circ −35∘F sustained wind chill.
Other factors besides temperature
Districts also look at:
- Whether extreme cold will last into normal start times, sometimes trying a 1–2 hour delay first if temperatures are just below 0°F but expected to warm slightly.
- Local conditions such as how far students walk, bus reliability, and building heating problems, so a place with many walkers in poor winter gear might close at milder temperatures than a well-prepared district.
How to find your local cutoff
The exact rule for you is usually posted by your school or district:
- Many districts list “inclement weather” or “cold weather” policies on their website, stating the wind-chill range (for example, lower than about −10∘-10^\circ −10∘F to −20∘-20^\circ −20∘F air temperature or wind chill) that triggers a delay or closure.
- When in doubt, check your district’s website, social media, or automated messages on very cold mornings, since most make the decision and notify families early (often before 6–7 a.m.).
