Are your kids’ school plans up in the air for Monday, January 26, 2026? Winter weather can be unpredictable, and deciding whether schools should open or delay is always a tough call. But here’s where it gets tricky: not all schools make the same decision, leaving parents and students scrambling for updates. Below, we’ve compiled the latest announcements for schools in Rochester, Minnesota, and surrounding areas. Keep in mind, schools are removed from the list as their announcements expire, so check back for real-time updates.
School Status Updates for Monday, January 26, 2026:
- Grand Meadow Public Schools: Delayed. Expect a 2-hour late start. No AM Preschool—a detail many parents might overlook, so plan accordingly!
- Kingsland Public Schools: Delayed. 2-hour late start. Also, no AM Preschool here, which could affect your morning routine.
- LeRoy-Ostrander Public Schools: Delayed. 2-hour late start. Straightforward, but don’t forget to double-check transportation schedules.
- Lyle Public School: Delayed. 2-hour late start. No AM Kindergarten—a critical note for families with younger children.
- Southern Minnesota Education Consortium: Delayed. 2-hour late start. A broader consortium, so ensure you’re aware of any specific program changes.
- Southland Public Schools: Delayed. 2-hour late start. No AM Preschool, which might require some last-minute childcare adjustments.
- St. Johns Lutheran School, Wykoff: Delayed. 2-hour late start. No Eagle Care—a unique detail that could impact after-school plans.
And this is the part most people miss: While delays are common in winter, the decision to cancel or delay isn’t just about snow—it’s about road safety, staff availability, and even heating systems in older buildings. Ever wondered why some schools delay while others close entirely? It’s a debate that sparks strong opinions among parents and educators alike.
If you’re curious about how these decisions are made or have a differing view, we’d love to hear from you! Should schools prioritize consistency across districts, or is it better to leave decisions to individual administrators? Let us know in the comments.
For more updates, reach out to Andrew Link, the Digital Managing Editor at the Post Bulletin since 2021. Andrew started as a photographer in 2015 and is always eager to connect with readers. You can contact him at 507-281-7427 or alink@postbulletin.com. Stay informed, stay safe, and let’s navigate this winter together!
