Oak Ridge Schools closing early Friday 'out of an abundance of caution'

"Out of an abundance of caution for the inclement weather forecasted later this afternoon, Oak Ridge Schools will be implementing a Wednesday early dismissal at all campuses except for the Preschool," stated a news release issued by Oak Ridge Schools at 12:48 p.m.

"Preschool transportation will be provided at approximately 2:45 p.m. for families that are unable to pick up their children earlier. For specific pick-up times for the middle and high schools, the Wednesday dismissal schedule can be found at your individual school’s website."

The School Administration Building staff will be released to go home at 1:30 p.m.

The students are being released ahead of storms and high winds expected for the area.

Anderson County and Knox County schools were called off Friday.

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration/National Weather Service website states a tornado watch is underway until 5 p.m. Friday and a high wind warning until 3 a.m. Saturday.

The Oak Ridge City Council postponed its meeting at 4 p.m. Friday to narrow the field of companies wishing to be hired to find Oak Ridge a new city manager. That meeting will now be held at 7:30 a.m. Monday in the Municipal Building training room.

This article originally appeared on Oakridger: Oak Ridge Schools closing early Friday ahead of weather system