Grand Rapids Public Schools (GRPS) has announced that it will be closed on Friday due to power outages. Several schools in the district have experienced a loss of power, leading to the decision to cancel all events for the day. This marks the first full-day closure of the school year.
GRPS Superintendent Leadriane Roby expressed the difficulty in canceling classes, especially during the exciting first week of school. However, the lack of power in multiple buildings made it impossible to hold classes. Roby also urged families to exercise extreme caution in areas affected by storm damage, as downed power lines and trees can pose significant hazards.
The closure comes after strong storms passed through West Michigan on Thursday night, causing damage and widespread power outages. As of early Friday morning, the Consumers Energy outage map indicated that over 35,300 customers in Grand Rapids were without power. The utility company has assured that crews will be working tirelessly throughout the weekend to restore power to affected customers.
It is worth noting that all GRPS schools had a half day on Thursday due to high temperatures. This closure on Friday further disrupts the academic schedule for students and staff.
As the district addresses the power outages and works towards restoring normal operations, it is important for students and their families to stay updated on any further announcements or changes to the school schedule.