FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 3, 2026
WTU Raises Alarm Over Unsafe Conditions as DCPS Reopens After Winter Storm
Washington, DC — On the first full day of school following the recent major winter storm, the Washington Teachers’ Union (WTU) is raising serious concerns about unsafe conditions in DC Public Schools, including reports of emergency exits frozen shut by ice, untreated walkways, and hazardous building access points.
WTU has repeatedly requested that DCPS provide a clear safety plan addressing storm-related hazards. To date, the District leadership has not provided any formal response or acknowledgement, leaving educators, families, and staff without critical information about how student safety is being ensured.
Educators across the District report that thick ice remains on school grounds, sidewalks, and entrances, creating dangerous conditions for students, families, and staff. In some schools, emergency exits have been rendered unusable due to ice accumulation, posing serious risks in the event of an emergency.
Families Choose Safety Over Risk
Since DC Public Schools reopened on Thursday, January 29, 2026, WTU has observed significantly reduced attendance, as many parents and caregivers chose to keep their children home rather than send them into unsafe environments. This decision reflects widespread concern about travel conditions, school access, and overall student safety.
Low attendance underscores what educators and families have been saying for days: reopening without fully addressing storm-related hazards puts the school community at unnecessary risk.
Unsafe Conditions Put to the Test at Watkins Elementary School
These concerns are not theoretical. On February 2, 2026, Watkins Elementary School was forced to evacuate more than 300 students and staff following a reported fire, revealing serious safety risks related to storm conditions.
According to staff reports:
- Students in first and second grade who were in the cafeteria at the time of the evacuation did not have an opportunity to retrieve coats, gloves, or winter clothing. Many older students were also unable to gather appropriate cold-weather gear.
- Due to icy sidewalks, students and staff slipped while attempting to reach evacuation points.
- Water from sprinkler systems flowed directly onto evacuation routes, creating additional ice and forcing students to walk through standing water in below-freezing temperatures.
- Limited sidewalk space and prolonged exposure to extreme cold required the entire school to cross icy streets and relocate to a small church across the street for shelter.
This incident highlights the dangerous consequences of reopening schools without fully addressing weather-related hazards and emergency preparedness.
WTU Demands Transparency and a Safety Plan
WTU is calling on DC Public Schools to immediately present a clear, comprehensive safety plan outlining how the District is ensuring that every school building is fully accessible, compliant with safety standards, and prepared for emergencies following severe weather.
Community Voices Matter
WTU urges educators, families, and community members to continue documenting and reporting unsafe conditions caused by the storm. Photos, videos, and firsthand accounts are critical to ensuring that decision-makers understand the realities in our schools.
To share safety issues related to storm conditions, including photos and videos, please visit: WTU Winter Storm Facilities Issues – Fill out form
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About the Washington Teachers’ Union
The WTU represents more than 6,000 active and retired teachers. It is dedicated to social and educational justice for the students of the District of Columbia and to improving the quality of support, resources, compensation and working conditions for the public servants and proud teachers who educate our students in D.C. Public Schools. Learn more at www.WTULocal6.net.
For media inquiries, contact:
Akua Tay
Communications Specialist
Washington Teachers’ Union
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (202) 412-8008