The district plans to reassess by April 5 when campuses might reopen, based on guidance from the CDC, local health agencies and the Texas Education Agency. These closures include cancellations of all athletic practices and competitions, district events and field trips.
District and campus administrators have developed a plan for instructional continuity and support for students during the duration of the school closures; details will be shared with families early next week. As the delivery of learning opportunities for students will involve technology, the district will work with families who may need access to a device at home.
“We want to assure everyone that the health and safety of our students, staff, parents and community is our top priority. This is truly an extraordinary time, and it has brought challenges for our system of education unlike anything we have ever seen, ” HPISD Superintendent Dr. Tom Trigg said. “While our buildings may be closed to students to maintain social distancing, our goal is to keep students engaged in learning in a number of ways. Our team has been working diligently to develop plans to ensure ongoing learning experiences.”
Staff will receive training and support for sharing learning experiences with students through virtual platforms. Parents will receive guidance from their campuses, both via email and on their school’s website, regarding their role in implementing the instructional continuity plan.
“Our desire is to keep students engaged in learning even when school is closed,” Trigg said. “We appreciate our HPISD families and the support they give to our schools. They serve as a critical partner for us as we provide ongoing learning opportunities for our students during this time.”
The HPISD Board of Trustees was briefed on the situation during an emergency school board meeting held tonight.
“Our school community has never had to take such drastic action but we all need to do our part,” HPISD Board President Jim Hitzelberger said. “I trust that all of us will rise to the occasion and work together to protect our community. We will make it through this and become even stronger as a result.”
For continued updates on this developing situation, please visit www.hpisd.org/coronavirus/.