Syracuse School Closings: Major Winter Storm Shuts Down Onondaga County Schools
SYRACUSE, NY – December 12, 2025 – A powerful lake-effect snowstorm has blanketed Central New York, forcing widespread Syracuse school closings and impacting districts across Onondaga County. Officials made the call early Friday morning, prioritizing the safety of students and staff as hazardous road conditions and heavy snowfall make travel treacherous. This developing story is trending news across the region as families adjust to the sudden snow day.
The National Weather Service issued a severe winter storm warning for the area, predicting over a foot of snow accumulation by the end of the day, coupled with high winds creating near-blizzard conditions. In a statement, the Syracuse City School District (SCSD) announced that all schools and district offices would be closed. "The safety of our students and staff is our utmost priority," said the superintendent's office. "Given the current road conditions and the forecast for continued heavy snow, we have made the necessary decision to close all facilities today."
This decision was echoed by numerous other districts in the surrounding suburbs, creating a ripple effect of closures throughout the county. The storm, which intensified overnight, has made many side roads impassable and poses a significant risk for school buses and commuting parents.
Confirmed Onondaga County School Closings & Delays
To help parents and guardians stay informed, here is a list of major school districts that have confirmed they will be closed on Friday, December 12, 2025. Please note this is a developing situation, and you should always confirm with your specific district's official channels.
- Syracuse City School District: All schools and offices closed.
- Baldwinsville Central School District: Closed.
- Liverpool Central School District: Closed.
- West Genesee Central School District: Closed.
- North Syracuse Central School District: Closed.
- Fayetteville-Manlius Central School District: Closed.
- Jamesville-DeWitt Central School District: Closed.
- Onondaga Central School District: Closed.
Local authorities are advising residents to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. Onondaga County Executive Ryan McMahon urged caution, stating, "Our plow crews are working tirelessly, but this is a significant weather event. Please stay home if you can and allow our emergency services and road crews to do their work safely."
For families, an unexpected snow day means a shift in plans. Many districts have indicated that today's closing will be a traditional snow day, with no remote learning requirements. However, parents are encouraged to check for communications from their child's school for any specific instructions or updates. Official sources for the latest information on Syracuse weather closings include local news outlets like Spectrum News 1 and WSYR-TV, as well as the school districts' official websites and social media pages.
As Central New York digs out, the community is reminded of the power of its infamous winters. While the closings may disrupt schedules, they are a critical measure to ensure everyone remains safe during this major weather event.
Stay tuned for more updates on this trending news story. What are the conditions like in your neighborhood? Share your updates and stay safe, Syracuse!