ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Asheville City Schools and Buncombe County Schools will operate on remote learning schedules Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2026, as dangerously cold temperatures and lingering travel hazards persist following Winter Storm Fern.
Asheville City Schools officials said forecasts call for below-zero temperatures overnight and refreezing on roads and sidewalks, prompting the district to close campuses while continuing instruction remotely.
Students are expected to follow remote learning plans posted on the Asheville City Schools website, with individual schools providing additional guidance. Staff members are instructed to telework or take leave unless otherwise directed by supervisors.
“As always, the safety and well-being of our students, staff and families remain our top priority,” Superintendent Dr. Maggie Fehrman said in a message to families.
Buncombe County Schools also announced a remote learning/optional teacher workday after transportation crews assessed road conditions across the county, including areas from Bent Creek to Garren Creek and Flat Creek.
Teachers will post assignments in learning management systems by 10 a.m. Tuesday or may have already sent paper packets home with students.
Students will have up to five school days to complete assignments and will be counted present once work is submitted, the district said.
To support families, Buncombe County Schools will offer lunch service from noon to 1 p.m. at AC Reynolds Middle School, Black Mountain Primary, Emma Elementary, Estes Elementary, Leicester Elementary, North Windy Ridge Intermediate and Candler Elementary. Students may eat at no charge, and meals will be available for parents for $5.25.
Both districts said they will continue monitoring weather and road conditions and will share updates as needed.