News Summary
The Garfield Re-2 School District in Grand Junction has postponed the start of school due to ongoing wildfires in the region. Initially scheduled to begin soon, the new return date for students is now set for August 13. This delay also affects athletic practices, which have been canceled. The decision was made in light of the Elk and Lee wildfires, which have raised air quality concerns and disrupted communication with schools. The district emphasizes the importance of safety for students and faculty as they adapt to these challenging circumstances.
Grand Junction, Colorado – The Garfield Re-2 School District has officially delayed the start of the school year due to the ongoing wildfires in the area. Students will now return to school on Wednesday, August 13, 2025, instead of the previously scheduled date. This delay affects not only educational activities but also athletic practices, which have been canceled for Monday, August 11, and Tuesday, August 12, 2025.
The decision to postpone classes comes in response to the Elk and Lee wildfires that are burning in Meeker, Colorado. These wildfires have severely impacted communication channels with schools in the district and raised persistent concerns about air quality for students and faculty alike. The district has stated that parents and guardians will be promptly notified regarding any further changes to the start of the school year by Tuesday, August 12, at 5 p.m.
Current Wildfire Status
The Turner Gulch Fire near Gateway, Colorado, has burned approximately 28,569 acres and is currently 49% contained. The fire was ignited by lightning on July 10, 2025, and firefighters are employing both aerial and ground-based strategies to control the blaze. Mandatory evacuation orders are in effect for the Big Creek and Divide Forks Campground Evacuation Zones, while the Ute Creek and Cold Springs Zones are under a pre-evacuation warning.
Simultaneously, the Lee Fire, which began on August 2, 2025, has escalated to burning over 106,700 acres and is only 6% contained. The cause of this blaze remains undetermined, although it is believed to have been sparked by lightning strikes. In response to the rapid growth of the Lee Fire, inmates from the Rifle Correctional Center were evacuated as a precautionary measure.
Local Emergency Response
In light of the severe fires, Mesa County has declared a local disaster emergency to enhance response operations and secure additional resources related to wildfire management. This declaration allows local agencies to better coordinate their efforts in fighting the blazes and ensuring the safety of residents.
Fire restrictions are currently in place across Mesa County due to extreme fire danger conditions, which further stresses the urgency of managing the wildfires effectively. Areas across Colorado are under close watch as various wildfires continue to threaten communities, with multiple evacuation orders and air quality warnings issued for areas affected by smoke.
Impact on the Community
The decision to delay the school year start in the Garfield Re-2 School District reflects the broader implications of the wildfires on community life. With air quality being a significant concern and communication challenges facing schools, district officials are prioritizing the safety and well-being of students and staff as they navigate this challenging situation.
As the wildfires continue to burn, authorities are monitoring the situation closely, and more updates are expected. The Garfield Re-2 School District remains committed to keeping parents and guardians informed as they work to adapt to the changing circumstances caused by the wildfires.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Louise Troy Elementary School Delays Opening Due to AC Malfunction
School Closures and Delays Due to Severe Cold in Tennessee
Schools Enhance Communication with Modern Technology
Okemos Schools to Discontinue Free Meals for All Students
Major Road Closures Begin in Palm Beach County for Train Track Repairs
Norfolk Public Schools Seek Extension on Closure Plans
Traffic Safety Advisory for New School Year in Coffee County
Shawnee to Close Monticello Road for Emergency Repairs
Pennsylvania Budget Stalemate Delays Aid to Schools and Services
Lincoln County Public Schools Delays School Start Date
Additional Resources
- IQAir: Turner Gulch Fire Spotlight
- USA Today: Colorado Prison Evacuated
- Denver Post: Colorado Wildfires
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wildfires
- KJCT8: Lee Fire Latest Updates
- Google Search: Colorado Wildfires
Author: STAFF HERE CLEVELAND WRITER
CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER The CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECleveland.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cleveland International Film Festival, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, and the Cleveland Air Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Cleveland Partnership and Destination Cleveland, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Cleveland Clinic and Sherwin-Williams. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Ohio's dynamic landscape.
