MIAMI (CBS4) – School officials in Palm Beach County aren’t taking any chances with Hurricane Sandy.

According to the Palm Beach County Public Schools website, all public schools will have early dismissal on Thursday, and will be closed completely on Friday ahead of the storm which is brewing off the South Florida coast.

Officials say students will be let out three hours early Thursday, with all after school and evening activities cancelled.

Officials made the determination after monitoring reports from the National Weather Service. Forecasters believe winds could reach up to 45 miles per hour, with gusts up to 60.   One to three inches of rain are also expected.

School officials have not decided whether to close schools in Miami-Dade or Broward County.

GALLERY: HURRICANE SANDY SKIRTS SOUTH FLORIDA