HOUSTON – With the federal government extending social distancing guidelines through the end of April, Houston area schools districts will remain closed, providing online instruction until the beginning of May, officials announced.
In addition to the federal guidelines, this decision comes in response to the new executive order by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on Tuesday to close all Texas schools until May 4.
Abbott is encouraging Texans to stay home as much as possible to stop the spread.
“Together we will persevere through this for another month. Together we are going to heal our state. Together we will ensure that the Lone Star State continues to shine,” said Abbott.
During this time, all schools will continue remote learning.
“We are dealing with an unprecedented crisis, and the safety of our students and staff is our top priority,” Houston Independent School District Interim Superintendent Grenita Lathan said. “We’re working diligently to ensure our students have the support they need to continue their learning at home until normal district operations resume. I urge parents and students to take advantage of the resources provided and reach out to us for support when they need it.”
Until traditional classroom instruction resumes, the district has launched HISD @ H.O.M.E. (Home-based Online Mobile Education), a distance learning plan to ensure students’ academic and non-academic needs are met as the district remains closed due to COVID-19 precautions.
Additionally, HISD @ H.O.M.E. TV provides instructional videos from 9-11 a.m. Monday through Friday. The videos include lessons from teachers and teacher development specialists in several subject areas, including math, science, reading and writing, social studies, and fine arts. The videos can also be watched on U-Verse Channel 99 and Comcast Channel 18.
In Fort Bend, online engagement began Monday, March 30, with teacher-facilitated online instruction beginning Friday, April 3.
Fort Bend ISD continues to offer free meals to students under the age of 18. More information about these Grab and Go meals and the District’s COVID-19 response can be found at www.fortbendisd.com/covid19.
The district is exploring options to resume operations of food distribution sites for our families in partnership with the Houston Food Bank. Once details are finalized, we will send out that information.
During this time, students, parents, and staff are urged to remain vigilant in their efforts to stay healthy.
All school districts in the Houston area have revised their learning platforms. Check your child’s district online to find out more.
