Students at one Richardson ISD school went back to virtual learning after a “COVID outbreak.” The decision to return to remote learning for Big Springs Elementary School in Garland came after 24 students and staff members tested positive for the virus on Monday morning.
On Tuesday, administrators shared that roughly 30% of the staff called in sick. It is unclear at this time if those infected have the Omicron variant. According to some experts tracking the strain, Omicron spreads easily. At this time, however, the CDC and disease experts still do not have enough solid data when it comes to Omicron.
The strain of the virus was first detected on November 21 and has already been detected in 36 states. As pointed out by Fox News, some parts of Texas have seen an increase in cases of COVID and hospitalizations. Experts are encouraging residents to take the proper precautions once again; vaccination, masks, hand washing, and social distancing.
“So that’s the best option right now for the majority of Americans is to get the vaccine, and to get the booster if they already have the vaccine. It would make sure that their immune system is a little bit stronger and better equipped to defend against this variant,” shared Dr. Shane Ferando, a clinical epidemiologist.
In a letter to the school’s staff, students, and families, Big Springs Elementary Principal Vince Dawes made the announcement of the school’s plans to return to virtual learning until after the New Year.
“This means there will be no in-person school or school activities beginning Wednesday, December 15,” Dawes wrote.
On December 16 and 17, students will attend classes virtually using iPads. Winter break began on December 18. Students will then resume their normal in-person learning schedules on January 4, 2022.
