The government looks set to close schools until the end of the month in response to rising rates of Covid-19.
The cabinet sub-committee met earlier to discuss the issue.
A final decision on the issue is to be made tomorrow.
Ministers are also giving consideration to how children with special needs and disabilities should be supported if they decide to keep schools closed for January.
Earlier, the Ombudsman for Children urged the government to avoid a blanket closure of schools.
Niall Muldoon says it would have a disproportionate impact on children with disabilities and those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
