Hays CISD is one of many districts who sent a letter to state officials addressing concerns about COVID-19.
The Hays CISD Board of Trustees and Superintendent Dr. Eric Wright signed the letter at the July 16 meeting. The letter was sent to Gov. Greg Abbott, TEA Commissioner Mike Morath, Sen. Donna Campbell and State Rep. Erin Zwiener.
With a population of over 21,000 students, the district is concerned about bringing them back into the classroom for face-to-face interaction when there has been a spike in positive cases.
"As conditions worsen and doubling rates increase, how can we honestly justify putting educators and students in peril," the letter reads. "At some point, when this health crisis levels off, it may be safe to bring everyone back into the classroom, but, as it stands right now, local school districts need the flexibility to make decisions on a measured response to local conditions and data."
Hays CISD is advocating for a list of implementations for the 2020-2021 school year, as the future is looking more uncertain with COVID-19. Such recommendations include waiving the STAAR testing, additional funding and more flexibility for local districts.
The district also asks for more assistance from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) for families, along with educators and students, to make necessary plans for the school year.
"Until an effective vaccine is found, the pandemic will continue to disrupt the lives of so many families," the letter reads. "Clear guidance from TEA will allow them time to arrange their schedules, or in worse cases, seek alternate employment."
