TEXAS, USA — Gov. Greg Abbott announced Tuesday that he is lifting the statewide mask mandate and reopening businesses to full capacity by next Wednesday, March 10, 2021.
The Texas Education Agency issued a response Wednesday afternoon saying school districts can keep doing what they've been doing. But, if the district would like to eliminate masks, the school board must vote to modify or change it.
The Texas State Teachers Association released a statement Tuesday afternoon urging the governor to keep the state's mask mandate in place, especially in public schools.
"Texans want to see all their public schools reopened, but they want to see them reopened safely. That includes continued safety practices, including mask use, and vaccines for educators," said TSTA President Ovidia Molina.
Following Gov. Abbott's address, several school districts across Southeast Texas took to social media to release a statement. Here are the preliminary plans in place for schools throughout the area.
The Vidor ISD released a statement Tuesday, March 9, that says in part:
- Masks are strongly recommended, but not required for Vidor ISD students.
- Masks are also strongly recommended, but not required for Vidor ISD staff.
- The district will continue to monitor data associated with Covid19 cases and quarantines and make adjustments as allowed by policy.
The Lumberton ISD Board of Trustees voted on March 9, 2021 to continue following the latest TEA Public Health Guidelines regarding masks in public schools.
BISD, including partner campuses, PLA and ResponsiveEd, will continue with its current protocol that requires facial coverings for all students and staff.
Parents, students and staff should be aware that the Texas Education Agency’s (TEA) quarantine requirements in which our district follows, have not changed. If students or staff members are exposed to COVID-19 without a face covering, they will be required to meet all state-mandated reentry protocols, including completion of a mandatory seven to 10-day quarantine.
The District will continue to take all necessary measures to ensure that students who elect to attend school face-to-face are provided the opportunity to do so. The District is currently reviewing the Executive Order and seeking guidance from TEA. BISD thanks all students, staff, and parents for your continued support and understanding as we work to provide a safe learning environment.