EPISD to comply with new city order, delay in-person instruction until Sept. 8. Virtual instruction for all EPISD students will begin on Aug. 17
EL PASO, TEXAS — The City of El Paso Department of Public Health released new orders limiting face-to-face instruction and requiring school buildings to remain closed to non-essential personnel until at least Sept. 8.
EPISD also will delay the first day of instruction to Aug. 17. The first three weeks of school will be conducted virtually for all students.
We will resume with the phased-in approach to the return to campuses on Sept. 8, or once local health authorities deem it safe to do so.
“EPISD is committed to our mission to serve as a strong community partner,” Superintendent Juan Cabrera said. “We have worked closely with the County and City of El Paso to ensure the health and wellbeing of our students, staff and community. We will to continue to work together for the safety of our community.”
EPISD staff and teachers will continue to work remotely until school buildings are opened.
Last week, parents were sent a survey listing the three instructional models that will be offered once campuses are open. The options include continued virtual; staggered schedules (combination virtual and in-person); and daily face to face for certain groups. Parents should still proceed with choosing an option as soon as possible in order to facilitate planning for campuses. The survey can be found at episd.org/reopeningplan.
The city’s order also states:
- All children with special healthcare needs which are considered medically fragile should not return to school until the 2021-2022 school year.
- Students, teachers, and staff age 2 years and older should wear face coverings, unless medically contraindicated or if this may pose a risk to the student, teachers, and staff.
For updates and details of EPISD’s reopening plan, visit episd.org/reopeningplan