Widespread Closings and Delays Across Wisconsin Schools and Businesses

Inclement weather leads to shutdowns and remote learning in the Fox Valley region

Mar. 16, 2026 at 11:04am

A major winter storm has prompted widespread closures and delays across schools, businesses, and services in the Fox Valley region of Wisconsin on Monday, March 16th. Dozens of school districts have announced they will be closed or shifting to remote learning for the day, while many local organizations, libraries, and government offices have also shut down operations.

Why it matters

The widespread closures and delays are likely due to hazardous winter weather conditions that have impacted the region, potentially making travel and operations unsafe. This disruption to normal routines and services could create challenges for families, workers, and the broader community.

The details

The list of affected entities is extensive, including the closure of schools, colleges, libraries, food pantries, government offices, and other businesses and services across multiple counties in the Fox Valley area. Many school districts have opted for either full closure or a shift to remote/virtual learning for the day, while some organizations like the NEW Zoo and county courthouses have also shut down. The closures span a wide range of sectors, from education and social services to manufacturing and retail.

  • The closures and delays are in effect for Monday, March 16, 2026.

The players

Appleton School District

A public school district serving the city of Appleton, Wisconsin.

Outagamie County

A county located in the Fox Valley region of Wisconsin.

NEW Zoo

A zoo located in Green Bay, Wisconsin that is closed on Sunday and Monday.

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What’s next

As the winter storm passes, schools and businesses will likely reopen on Tuesday, March 17th, though some may continue remote operations or have delayed schedules.

The takeaway

This widespread disruption highlights the impact that severe winter weather can have on a regional community, underscoring the importance of preparedness and the ability to quickly adapt to changing conditions in order to ensure public safety and minimize disruptions to daily life.