Gov. Greg Abbott announced April 17 all of Texas’ public and private schools will remain closed for the remainder of the 2019-20 school year in an effort to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus. Lake Travis ISD Superintendent Brad Lancaster quickly responded in a letter to the community.
Despite the extended closure, LTISD students will continue to engage in a virtual learning platform, which was released March 26. Lancaster noted that the school year will not be extended past the previously planned final day of instruction on May 22.
All other essential operations including free mobile meals and custodial services will continue.
Abbott’s updated orders will also result in the cancellation or rescheduling of a number of district events, including the graduation ceremony previously set to take place at Cavalier Stadium.
Lake Travis High School principal Gordon Butler recently announced a series of alternative graduation plans during the April 15 regular board meeting. A virtual ceremony will be scheduled for May 22, where students and families will have the opportunity to receive recognition through an online slideshow.
Additional plans are underway for a physical graduation ceremony at the H-E-B Center in Cedar Park. That ceremony is planned for Aug. 1.
Lancaster will appear in a live broadcast through the district’s Facebook page to answer questions regarding the return of school-issued items as well as the status of summer school and more. According to the district, that event will take place late next week, though an official day has not been set.
“In the meantime, I ask for your continued patience, flexibility and support,” Lancaster said. “Please know I will keep you updated with any developments.”
