Three schools at risk of structural defects will only be able to partially reopen after the mid-term break.
The Department of Education says work has begun on Tyrrelstown Educate Together National School, St Luke's National School and Gaelscoil Eiscir Riada, Lucan in Dublin which would allow them to reopen their ground floors.
The Minister for Education Joe McHugh says all displaced classes in these schools can be accommodated in other school premises, and transport arrangements will be put in place.
Work is also starting on two other schools that require external works in Tallaght and Balbriggan prior to reopening in full.
Initial structural assessments are on course to be completed this evening, but The Department of Education is to provide a further update on the situation tomorrow evening.