MISSISSIPPI — Severe winter weather that blanketed much of Mississippi with ice, freezing rain and hazardous conditions has led to widespread school closures and changes to learning schedules across the state for Monday, January 26, 2026.
As of Sunday evening, almost half of the state’s public school districts had announced they will either close campuses or switch to virtual learning Monday due to dangerous road conditions and extreme cold temperatures.
In the Jackson metro area, Jackson Public Schools confirmed that all schools and district offices will be closed on Monday, urging families to avoid unnecessary travel. Madison County Schools and Clinton Public Schools also canceled classes for the day.
Several private and parochial schools are adjusting operations as well: St. Joseph Catholic School plans to shift to virtual instruction, requiring students to log in for online learning Monday morning.
Across the state, many other districts have announced closures through Tuesday or longer. Among those listed by the Mississippi Department of Education are Oxford School District, which will remain closed all week, Benton County School District, Greenville Public School District and Tishomingo County Schools, with some districts extending closures through Wednesday.
Schools in central and eastern Mississippi are also affected. Meridian Public School District and Lauderdale County School District canceled classes Monday, while East Mississippi Community College, East Central Community College and Meridian Community College will hold virtual classes.
In total, nearly 70 school districts statewide have announced closures Monday as the storm continues to affect travel and infrastructure.
State officials continue to monitor conditions, urging families to stay informed through district communications as decisions about Tuesday operations are expected later Monday.
