HISD preparing for safe return to in-person learning for all students

HISD will offer in-person learning five days a week for all students this coming school year, and preparations for a safe and healthy return to the classroom are already underway.

In-person learning is critical for both student growth and success as well as addressing pandemic-related learning losses. To ensure safe in-person experiences, HISD is continuing to work in partnership with health and education officials.

“As both superintendent and the father of two children enrolled and ready to be in HISD classrooms this fall, I can promise you that we’re doing everything we can in HISD to ensure all students are safe, healthy, and ready to learn,” Superintendent Millard House said.

To ensure a safe transition, the district will maintain the following protocols:

  • Urging students, staff, and essential visitors to stay home when sick
  • Providing masks upon request and allowing them to be worn in schools and buildings but not requiring them per state mandate
  • Keeping plexiglass dividers in place
  • Cleaning and disinfecting all schools and buildings nightly
  • Limiting visitation to essential visitors with pre-scheduled appointments

More detailed information will be provided in the coming weeks as the district releases its back-to-school plan for the coming school year.

HISD’s Communicable Disease Plan — a living document that governs health and safety protocols during public health emergencies — will be formally deactivated on Aug. 2. However, the Communicable Disease Plan Committee, a cross-functional team that developed the plan, will continue meeting regularly to monitor local conditions and public health guidance.

Additionally, 15 academic days have been added to the 2021-2022 school year to help address learning gaps resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic.

The days were added to the calendar after input from teachers, parents, students, and educational experts, as well as recent statewide STAAR test results that show learning loss resulting from the pandemic.

The days provide HISD the opportunity to address student academic needs and utilize resources designed to help students reengage in learning and regain knowledge. With an eye on improving student outcomes, district administrators also are formulating plans to mitigate lost instructional time and improve educational performance.