Snow days used to be a magical part of growing up in America—a surprise day off, sledding with friends, hot cocoa at home, and the joy of waking up to the words “school is closed.” But now, in state after state, snow days are disappearing—replaced by glitchy Zoom classrooms and chaotic “virtual learning” days that leave families and teachers scrambling and students disengaged.

During the pandemic, remote learning became a necessity. But now, schools are defaulting to online instruction at the first sign of bad weather—even if it’s just for a single day. That means teachers are expected to rework lesson plans with no notice, while parents—especially those who can’t work remotely—are suddenly expected to become teaching assistants.

It doesn’t work. It didn’t during the pandemic, and it doesn’t now.

Virtual learning days during weather closures:

• Create enormous stress for working parents
• Lead to lower engagement and poor learning outcomes
• Burn out already overwhelmed teachers
• Eliminate joyful, memory-making moments for children

The research is clear: occasional snow days have little long-term academic impact. But they make a big difference in quality of life—for students, families, and educators.

We’re calling on state legislatures and departments of education nationwide to adopt common-sense limits on e-learning days. Follow the lead of states like New Jersey, which ban e-learning during weather closures unless schools are closed for multiple consecutive days.

Schools can still prepare for major disruptions—but a snowstorm shouldn’t trigger an emergency education response. Snow days should be preserved as what they are: a cherished and necessary break.

Sign this petition to urge your state leaders to bring back real snow days—and stop making families log on when they should be enjoying the snow.