As wildfires continue to devastate parts of Los Angeles County, nearly two dozen school districts, colleges, and universities have announced closures or limited operations in response to the ongoing fires, smoke, and hazardous air quality. The widespread closures affect students of all ages, from primary schools to higher education institutions, as the fires continue to spread across Southern California. Many districts are prioritizing student and staff safety, conducting assessments, and addressing logistical challenges caused by the unpredictable fires.
The fires, coupled with high winds and power outages, have forced educational facilities to remain shut for multiple days. Schools across the region are dealing with evacuation orders, damaged infrastructure, and air quality issues, which have led to significant disruptions for students and their families. Local authorities have urged people to stay indoors, limit outdoor activities, and remain vigilant as the situation develops.
School Closures and Safety Measures
As reported by the LAist, various school districts, including Los Angeles Unified School District (LAUSD), Alhambra Unified, Arcadia Unified, and Pasadena Unified, have extended school closures through at least Thursday, January 9. In a statement, LAUSD announced that all schools and offices would be closed on January 9, with Superintendent Alberto Carvalho emphasizing the need to prioritize safety amid “unpredictable winds and ongoing fires.” The district is assessing the possibility of online learning on Friday, January 10, based on air quality conditions.
Many districts have focused on assessing the damage caused by the fires. Alhambra Unified, for example, cited “poor air quality” and ongoing evacuation orders impacting staffing levels as reasons for continued closures. Similarly, the Santa Monica-Malibu Unified School District announced closures due to fire damage, including the destruction of several school campuses like Palisades Charter Elementary, with the district offering resources and meals for students during this time.
Impact on Local Colleges and Universities
Higher education institutions in the area have also been impacted. Many universities have canceled classes or switched to virtual learning formats due to safety concerns. As the fires near, students and staff are urged to check university websites for updates on closures or operational changes. Some campuses have reported power outages and infrastructure damage, adding to the uncertainty.
Several campuses have set up evacuation zones for faculty and staff, prioritizing their safety. “We are working closely with emergency services to ensure the safety of everyone on campus,” the LAist quoted a spokesperson from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), which is preparing for a possible campus-wide closure if conditions worsen.
School and College Status
