Alexandria City Public Schools will change up its schedule today (Monday) ahead of potential severe weather, including thunderstorms and possible tornadoes.
ACPS will dismiss students two hours early, and all afternoon and evening classes are canceled. The change comes after several regional school systems made their early dismissal decisions on Sunday.
Severe thunderstorms, damaging winds and potentially tornadoes are expected to rip through the D.C. area Monday, prompting warnings from forecasters. The National Weather Service says the most severe storms could produce 70 to 80 mph wind gusts and an “isolated stronger tornado.”
Low clouds and passing showers are expected this morning. As these stratus clouds erode & a strong cold front approaches from the west, strong to severe t’storms are expected. The more potent cells could produce 70-80 mph wind gusts & even a few tornadoes. #MDwx #VAwx #DCwx #WVwx pic.twitter.com/rgVstvnWGs
— NWS Baltimore-Washington (@NWS_BaltWash) March 16, 2026
More from ACPS on the schedule change:
Dear Alexandria City Public Schools Staff and Families,
Due to the forecast of severe storms for our region, all Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) schools and offices will be dismissed two hours early on March 16, 2026. For early closures, Morning Preschool dismisses at 10:00 a.m. Afternoon Preschool will begin at 10:15 a.m. All afternoon and evening activities scheduled at facilities, including field trips, are canceled at this time. Breakfast and lunch will be served to students.
Please ensure authorized receivers, parents/guardians are present at the bus stop, as necessary.
This cancellation applies to all programming provided by community organizations or the City of Alexandria in ACPS facilities or on school grounds, as well as any ACPS athletic, band or other extracurricular activities or community events. Families may want to check with their community service provider or Recreation, Parks and Cultural Activities regarding any changes to scheduled activities due to the expected weather.
The safety and security of our students and staff are of utmost priority for ACPS.
Sincerely,
Dr. Melanie Kay-Wyatt
Superintendent
Alexandria City Public Schools
