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Dear Team HISD:

Thank you for your hard work, patience, and flexibility to ensure a successful first week of the 2020-2021 school year.

With the first six weeks of virtual learning for all students underway, we are now preparing for students and staff to return to classrooms in October. This return to in-person teaching and learning is the next phase in our 2020-2021 reopening plan, and we are so excited to welcome everyone back as we continue to Reconnect Safely and Return Strong.

Beginning Monday, Oct. 12, all teachers, and school-based staff must physically report to their assigned campuses. All teachers will lead virtual lessons from their assigned classrooms during this final week of online learning. On Monday, Oct. 19, students begin to return to classrooms for in-person learning.

We have developed an extensive Communicable Disease Plan to ensure a safe, structured return. As outlined in the plan, masks covering both the nose and mouth are always required for both students and staff, except when eating and drinking during lunch. Physical distancing also is required whenever possible.

Entry screening is another key component. Employees must monitor themselves for potential symptoms and stay home if they — or anyone in their household — feels sick. To facilitate this process, we will be utilizing a health screening app for employees to submit their information. All employees must use this app to complete a daily health screening prior to arrival at work. Based on answers to certain questions, the app will either provide the clearance for work or referral to medical personnel for further review. Additional instructions regarding this process will be provided during the week of Sept. 21.

In the meantime, I encourage you to visit HoustonISD.org/Reopening and carefully review the Communicable Disease Plan to ensure you are familiar with our health and safety procedures prior to your return. Should you have any questions, please contact your direct supervisor.

Once again, thank you for all that you continue to do to ensure our students are engaged during this period of virtual learning. I appreciate your patience and persistence as we continue to navigate this pandemic, and I look forward to seeing you soon on campus. #MaskUp

Sincerely,


Grenita F. Lathan, Ph.D.
HISD Interim Superintendent