Arlington ISD Superintendent Updates Families for Their Return to School This Fall

By Arlington ISD Communications

Posted on June 26, 2020, June 26, 2020

In a letter to parents and guardians today, Superintendent Dr. Marcelo Cavazos shared what the Arlington ISD knows so far about how students and teachers will return to class this fall. Here is his letter: 

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Last week I promised you an update regarding our Return to School plan based on guidance expected from the Texas Education Agency (TEA) on Tuesday. Unfortunately, the TEA wasn’t ready to release the guidance but I still want to share what we do know right now about this fall.

You can choose to enroll for in-person instruction (as allowed by the Texas governor) or online instruction.

Registration opens on July 7 where you will be asked to choose between the in-person or online instructional model. At any time during the year, you can change your mind and select the other option. We are asking you to choose to help us plan for a safe return to the classroom when appropriate.

School is scheduled to begin on August 17, 2020.

In-Person Instruction:

We understand that these are uncertain times and that COVID-19 is changing how families and the district operate almost daily. Right now, we hope to return to in-person instruction for those who select this option on August 17.

However, what we’re planning in June and July may look different on August 17 when the school year officially begins. Should in-person instruction be closed by order of the Texas governor, your child will be able to learn online.
Safety for In-Person Instruction:

Every decision made for in-person instruction will be through a lens of safety with our students, staff and community the top priority. That will not change regardless of what the TEA mandates or recommends. The district has a Task Force working diligently to create a plan that addresses multiple safety concerns.

Once we have the TEA guidelines, we will weave them into our plan for a safe return to school.

Online Instruction:

For students or parents who prefer for instruction to be in the online environment, that option will be available. The online learning option will contain a rigorous curriculum, daily attendance will be taken and students will receive grades for all of their courses.

Registration:

Registration for the 2020-2021 school year begins on July 7. Again, you will be asked to select your preference for the coming year, but you can change that preference at any time.

We want you to have the flexibility to do what you think is best for your student to get the best and safest education possible. You can bookmark www.aisd.net/register to be ready to register starting July 7.

I can’t thank you enough for your patience, endurance and support as we have navigated these choppy waters together. We have more challenging days ahead but I am confident in our partnership and that we will overcome.

Please stay safe and healthy.

Sincerely,
Dr. Marcelo Cavazos
Superintendent