After the Snow Day, the Sick Day: One in 6 New York City teachers called out of work on Tuesday
Fortune
by Jake Offenhartz, Mike Catalini, The Associated PressFebruary 24, 2026
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After a historic snowstorm that blanketed the northeastern United States, New York City faced an unexpected challenge as nearly one in six teachers called out sick on the first day back from school. The storm, which set records in some areas, led to widespread disruptions but also showcased the city's resilience. Despite the severe conditions, NYC schools remained open, with over 900,000 students attending classes. However, the absence of approximately 12,000 teachers created a need for nearly 5,000 substitute teachers, highlighting potential workforce management issues in emergency situations.
The decision to keep schools open was driven by the understanding that in-person education serves multiple purposes for families, including enabling parents to work without worrying about childcare. Officials emphasized that shifting to remote learning would have been logistically complex following a midwinter break. This perspective underscores the economic impact of school operations, as many families rely on children's schooling to maintain their own work schedules.
Public reaction was mixed. While some praised the city’s effective snow-clearing efforts, which facilitated smoother commutes and safer routes for students, others expressed concerns about the safety risks posed by deep snow and icy conditions. Parents like Danielle Obloj questioned whether it was safe for children to return to school so soon after such a severe storm.
Looking ahead, another storm was forecast
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Originally published on Fortune on 2/24/2026