Snow Days Prompt Major Changes to Manassas Mid-Term Exams, Class Schedules

The current forecast for Thursday morning in Manassas calls for more cold temperatures, with some roads still dangerous from Tuesday's snowstorm. 

This week's inclement weather has forced Manassas City school officials to cancel mid-term exams for Osbourn High School and Metz Middle School students this week.

"It has been determined that it is best to cancel mid-term exams due to the excessive amount of time missed this week because of snow and icy conditions. I know many will be disappointed, but it is important to move forward and begin second semester on time," Osbourn High School Principal Cathy Benner wrote in a message to students posted on the school website. 

First semester grades will be determined by averaging first and second quarter grades. Semester courses will have final grades determined similarly, Benner said. 

The semester will end on Friday, which is a "white" day for students, meaning they should attend all eight classes. Students should report first to their "B1" class even if school starts late, school officials said. 

The third quarter and second semester for the school division will begin on Wednesday, Jan. 29, after the two teacher works days on Monday and Tuesday, Manassas officials said. 

"The decision to remain closed Thursday is due to icy streets, consistent low temperatures and flash freeze conditions, which are not safe for buses, student drivers and walkers," a spokeswoman for the Manassas school division said in a message posted on the division's Facebook page.   "The safety of students and staff is our paramount concern and priority and the decision to close school or delay school opening is not taken lightly. Closure decisions are based on a variety of factors including weather and news reports and local school and city officials who also report on road and weather conditions." 

Should schools midterms in Manassas be canceled? Tell us in the comments section below.