Planning for a safe, successful 2020-2021 school year ahead

The beginning of the 2020-2021 school year is a short two months away, and planning and preparations are rapidly under way to ensure a safe and successful academic year. 

The district has formed the HISD Communicable Diseases Plan Task Force — which is made up of health experts, parents, students, staff, and community members — to help determine guidelines and protocols to resume operations at the campus and administrative levels. No decision has been made, but the district is considering three options:

• Classes could resume in person.
• Classes could continue to take place entirely online via virtual instruction.
• Classes could be held as a combination of in-person and virtual instruction.

This week, we expect to receive additional guidance from the Texas Education Agency on a safe return to school for students, teachers, and staff. We will communicate plans for the 2020-21 school year as soon as they are finalized.

Last week, we launched a COVID-19 Response Parent Survey, which runs through July 2. Parents are asked to complete the survey online at HoustonISD.org/ParentSurvey. Those without internet service may respond to the survey via phone by calling the HISD @ H.O.M.E. hotline at 713-556-INFO (4636).

Additionally, after careful consideration due to uncertainty surrounding COVID-19 and recent increase in cases, we have decided not to move forward with a proposal to adopt the Year-Round Designation with the Texas Education Agency, which would have allowed for an amended 11-month academic calendar for the 2020-21 school year.  

We will keep the existing 2020-21 academic year calendar, with the addition of 10 targeted remediation days or Academic Boot Camps for students who may have fallen behind academically due to COVID-19. The later start date provides the district an opportunity to monitor the pattern of COVID-19 cases and make necessary adjustments as it relates to in-person, virtual learning, or a combination of the two.

When considering the 11-month academic calendar proposal, we wanted to be responsive to the feedback received regarding week-long intersessional breaks during the school year being a difficult option for many of our parents.

Please rest assured that any plan for returning to in-person operations at campuses and facilities will be thoroughly communicated beforehand, with safety as our top priority.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we navigate this uncharted territory and identify school re-opening options that prioritize the health and safety of students, staff, and the community. Thank you for your determination and perseverance.

Have a wonderful and safe summer break.