Georgia schools dismiss classes early as strong storms approach

ATLANTA - School districts in Georgia are changing schedules in response to impactful storms on Thursday afternoon.

The Atlanta Public School System has canceled all after-school activities, saying "the safety and well-being of our students and employees will always be a top priority."

Clayton County Public Schools announced early dismissal for high schools at 1 p.m., elementary schools at 2 p.m., and middle schools at 3:30 p.m. Sports and extracurricular activities are also canceled. 

Cobb County Schools has canceled all after-school programs except for ASP. At this time, schools will still be dismissed at their usual times and busses will operate on their normal schedules.

DeKalb County has canceled all extracurricular and athletic activities. Parents are encouraged to pick up their children before the regular dismissal time if the student does not use the school bus system.

In Gwinnett County, all after-school programs are also canceled., though elementary after school programs will remain open for families in need. Dismissal times are currently running as scheduled, though officials say they may be impacted due to the weather.

Jackson County School System has canceled all their after-school activities as well. 

FOX 5 Atlanta is monitoring other school districts for closures.

Storms are expected to reach metro Atlanta by about 2 p.m. The cells could bring heavy rain and strong winds. 

Areas of the state are under a Tornado Watch.

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