Updated: February 23, 2026
Families across Halifax Regional Municipality are adjusting their Monday plans after the Halifax Regional Centre for Education announced that all HRCE schools will dismiss students early on Monday, February 23, 2026, because of a winter storm expected to worsen through the afternoon.
Schools remain open for morning classes, but the shortened day is intended to get students, staff and school buses home before snow, blowing snow and reduced visibility make travel more difficult.
HRCE early dismissal schedule for February 23
The early dismissal applies across the district. Bused students will be picked up about two hours earlier than their regular dismissal time, while students who do not take the bus will be dismissed at their school’s regular lunch hour.
All After School EXCEL programs, school sports, extracurricular activities and Halifax Regional Arts programs are cancelled for the day.
HRCE central offices and worksites remain open for now, with conditions expected to be reviewed as the storm develops. Families should continue checking the official HRCE website for direct updates.
Why the school day is being shortened
The forecast referenced by HRCE calls for snow to begin around midday, with conditions expected to worsen later in the afternoon. The main concerns are increasing snowfall, blowing snow, lower visibility and roads becoming slippery during the usual dismissal period.
By moving dismissal earlier, the district is trying to avoid having school buses and family vehicles on the road when the storm is likely to be stronger.
What parents and guardians should do
Families using school bus service should plan for earlier drop-off times. Parents of younger students may need to confirm that someone will be home or available at the revised time.
Non-bused students will leave at lunch, so pickup and supervision arrangements should be checked directly with the school if needed.
After-school programs and activities cancelled
The cancellation of after-school programs is meant to reduce travel later in the day, when snow and wind could make roads more difficult. This includes EXCEL, sports practices, games, clubs and arts programming.
Families can follow more local and national updates through the latest Canada news and weather updates.
Storm conditions may change quickly
Winter weather in the Halifax region can shift quickly, especially when snow is paired with gusting winds. Blowing snow can reduce visibility on open roads, while accumulating snow may slow bus routes and afternoon traffic.
As of now, HRCE schools are open but dismissing early. Parents and guardians should keep monitoring official updates in case conditions worsen faster than expected.
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