Yellowjacket Nation,
I hope that you are just as excited as I am to start the new school year. As I've seen some of you around the community, two of the most common questions that I am asked are whether we will be required to wear face masks and whether virtual learning from home is an option.
Governor Abbott issued an executive order in May that prohibited Texas public schools from requiring masks. As a result, wearing a mask is now optional for children, staff, and visitors.
Texas lawmakers failed to pass a bill that would have continued funding districts for remote learning. Without this funding, we can only offer in-person instruction. I understand that learning from home is a prudent and safe option for families with unique personal and health issues. Please know that we will continue to have a learning environment that addresses the health, safety, and emotional well-being of our children and staff.
Hand-sanitizing stations will remain in schools and in classrooms, and children will be reminded throughout the day to wash their hands. Since water fountains will remain closed, we encourage students to bring refillable water bottles.
Also, Runge ISD is fortunate to have a registered nurse. Nurse Martin will continue to serve as a valuable resource. Please chat with her should you have any questions. Nurse Martin has information regarding COVID-19 and safety and health measures.
Looking back at the past school year, I realized that our community successfully eased back into attending school, sporting events and graduation because of your patience and desire for a healthy and much needed return.
As we enter the 2021-2022 school year, remember that a mask mandate is prohibited, COVID-19 vaccines are not required, virtual learning will not be offered, and the state will no longer allow school districts to require quarantines for possible COVID-19 exposure. This school year, public schools are being told to treat COVID-19 exposure similar to the flu or strep throat. As you can see, self-screening your children for symptoms and keeping them home when they are ill is especially important. RISD will also continue to limit visitors to the campus during the instructional day for the safety and well being of our students and staff.
For the latest version of our RISD Safe Return To In-Person Instruction And Continuity Of Services Plan, visit the link below.
https://www.rungeisd.org/.../60f0badfcfb42/RIPICS%20Plan.pdf
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to email me at hdominguez@rungeisd.org.
Educationally Yours,
Hector O. Dominguez, Jr.
Superintendent
