01/29/2026
Charger Family,
I wanted to provide you with an update on where we currently are regarding the reopening of schools following the ice storm.
Our Central Office Operations Team is meeting daily to assess current conditions across the district. These meetings focus on campus cleanup progress, infrastructure readiness, and whether the key metrics we have identified are in place to allow for a safe return to school for both students and staff.
At this time, all school campuses have power and water. However, we recognize that conditions across our community remain fluid, and that status could change as restoration efforts continue elsewhere.
As we determine when it is safe to return, we are closely monitoring several key metrics, including:
-The percentage of staff with power, water, and safe means to travel to work
-The percentage of families with power and water
-The ability for buses to safely run routes
-The functionality of OSD servers and critical systems
In addition, I am in daily communication with Mayor Tannehill as well as Keith Hayward, CEO of North East Mississippi Electric Power Association. Both are providing valuable, up-to-date information that is helping guide our decision-making process.
Later this week—likely tomorrow (Thursday, January 29)—you will receive a brief staff survey. The purpose of the survey is to better understand the conditions our employees are currently facing. While we understand that not every staff member may see or be able to complete the survey, the data we do receive will be an important part of our planning and decision-making process.
My goal is to make and communicate a decision regarding school for next week no later than Friday morning at 10:00 a.m.
I also want to make you aware that the district will be providing free meals to our community from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Oxford Middle School, beginning tomorrow, Thursday, January 29. This effort is part of our commitment to support families and staff as recovery continues.
Thank you for your patience, flexibility, and care for one another as our community continues to recover. Please continue to prioritize your safety, and know that we are working diligently to make the best possible decisions for our Charger family.
LYP,
Bradley Roberson
Superintendent, Oxford School District
