The Lancaster Independent School District halted in-person learning for all students following the recent rise in COVID-19 cases. School officials decided to return to virtual learning as students are on holiday break.
Lancaster ISD shared the decision to return to virtual learning on their website website, stating that “students will not return to in-person learning next week.” The statement went on to share that school officials made the decision with the safety of students and staff in mind.
“Decisions to close our schools are only made after very careful consideration. In this case, our health services department has remained updated on the current COVID-19 trends in our community, and we believe this is the best option for our school district,” the online statement continued.
Upon the students return to learning after the New Year, the school will start the week with an “instructional pivot transitional day” to allow parents and guardians the ability to prepare for the change back to virtual learning.
Lancaster ISD students will then attend virtual learning from January 5 through January 7.
The move from in-person learning to virtual comes after the Dallas Public Health Committee moved the county into a red status on December 28 after local hospitals became increasingly overwhelmed due to the latest strain, Omicron.
“The Public Health Committee has moved the threat level to RED. My staff will tweet their letter to me shortly. Be careful. Be safe. Get boosted. Wear a surgical mask. Avoid crowds for now. You always rise to the challenge, North Texas, and you will now,” Dallas County Judge Clay Jenkins tweeted.
Meanwhile, Lancaster ISD will be offering vaccinations on Monday, January 3, to the parents and students within the district. Those interested in the COVID-19 vaccine can register here.