UFT Criticizes Decision To Keep NYC Public Schools Open During Winter Storm

NEW YORK -  The United Federation of Teachers is criticizing the decision to keep New York City’s public schools open on Thursday.

Union President Michael Mulgrew said the winter storm made it unsafe for students, parents and staff to get to school.

“I understand the desire to keep schools open. The only thing that trumps that is safety,” Mulgrew said in a statement. “Having students, parents and staff traveling in these conditions was unwarranted. It was a mistake to open schools today.”

Forecasters are calling for 8 to 12 inches of snow in New York City by the time the storm is finished. A winter storm warning is in effect until 6 a.m. Friday.

Schools Chancellor Carmen Farina announced Wednesday night that public schools would remain open Thursday during the storm. After-school activities were canceled Thursday.

Most nearby districts as well as Catholic elementary schools in Manhattan, the Bronx and Staten Island are closed due to the snow.