KISD closes campuses through April 13 - explores online options

R. HANS MILLER | TIMES SENIOR REPORTER
Posted 3/16/20

In response to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s request to ensure that gatherings of people remain at ten people or less and to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 – also …

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KISD closes campuses through April 13 - explores online options

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In response to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s request to ensure that gatherings of people remain at ten people or less and to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 – also known as novel coronavirus – Katy ISD has cancelled classes until at least April 13, the district said in a statement released Monday evening.

“This measure will provide the district and health officials time to evaluate the extent of COVID-19 in the community,” KISD Manager for Media Relations Maria DiPetta said in the statement. “Data collected over the next several weeks will also allow Katy ISD to make an informed decision to resume in-person instruction or extend the closure.”

DiPetta said the district will beghin providing students and parents information regarding the beginning of online instruction March 18. The goal is for telecommuting to school to begin Marc 23. A schedule of online classes will be provided March 20 in order to allow parents and students to prepare for online classroom attendance.

Multiple internet providers including Comcast, Spectrum, Verizon and AT&T are offering some form of free or reduced-cost internet to low-income families that need assistance which may allow students to get online.

"During this extraordinary time, it is vital that as many Americans as possible stay connected to the internet – for education, work, and personal health reasons,” said Comcast Cable Chief Executive Officer Dave Watson.

KISD had originally extended spring break through March 21 with classes planned to resume March 22 in response to the pandemic. This change is in response to guidelines put out by the CDC which mirror guidance put out by the Trump administration earlier in the day Monday.

COVID-19, KISD, Katy ISD, Maria DiPetta, school closures