Milwaukee Public Schools canceled classes Wednesday, the second day of the school year, because of excessive heat in the forecast.
The district notified families Tuesday afternoon that all schools will be closed Sept. 2. About 60,000 students had just returned Tuesday for the first day of the 2026-27 school year.
“Due to the excessive heat forecast and in accordance with guidance from the Milwaukee Health Department, all Milwaukee Public Schools will be closed Wednesday, Sept. 2,” the letter to parents said. “All before- and after-school, recreation and athletic programs are canceled.”
School-based staff were told not to report. Staff who missed required training Aug. 31 may complete it from home if they have computer access. Central Services and administrative buildings will remain open.
Forecasts called for highs in the upper 80s Wednesday with heat-index values near 95. Tuesday already brought temperatures near 90 and a heat index approaching 100.
Classes are scheduled to resume Thursday.
