The Houston Independent School District is restricting access to all district schools and facilities from July 3 through July 19, in response to an increasing number of Covid-19 cases throughout the city.
The announcement, posted on the district's blog, states that all summer athletic practices and in-person summer school sessions have been canceled. Employees have through July 2 to complete campus-based tasks and take home any needed items.
The district says it is continuing to operate virtually and will provide educational and related services during the disruption of normal district operations. Employees reporting to a location as a part of their assigned duties will continue to practice social distancing and wear appropriate personal protective equipment in accordance with district policy and public health guidelines.
“These new measures are imperative for the health and safety of our students and staff. Every decision we make has them in mind,” Interim Superintendent Grenita Lathan says
The restriction comes as local, state, and federal officials have pointed to worsening outbreaks in Texas and, more specifically, Harris County, which includes Houston.
Texas Gov. Greg Abbott has urged people to stay home when possible and wear masks when outside the house.
Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo has issued a Level 1 red alert, indicating severe and uncontrolled transmission of Covid-19 with worsening outbreaks. She urged people to stay home and go out only for emergency needs.
Most Houston school employees have been working from home since the district announced its building closures in March, but some staff have been allowed to re-enter and complete necessary duties, such as registration, technology distribution, equipment inventory, and classroom space assessments.
