Chief of Teaching and Learning Ryan Smith gave a presentation to the board of trustees outlining what the next steps will look like leading up to the first semester of full in-person attendance since spring 2020—which Smith pointed out would be the first time on campus for children who began attending RRISD schools during the 2020-21 and 2021-22 school years.
"They're recognizing that it's gonna be an emotional transition, as well as academic transition, and more than our day to day on campus," Smith said. "[They will] get to know the students, and they're able to reach out and welcome them that first day. It's gonna really help with that sense of belonging."
In Smith's presentation, he said the district has already begun conducting surveys to gather information from stakeholders regarding the return to campus before the end of the year, with windows of transition set for campuses and departments to create in-person schedules. He said campuses and counselors are preparing to bring students back, providing support as needed, while internal plans to share data between virtual and in-person educators are under development.
Some teachers are already planning on returning to campus from virtual learning prior to the end of the semester, Smith said, as in-person enrollment grows.
Smith said an extension of virtual learning beyond 2023, when funding made possible by Senate Bill 15 expires, will no longer be an option for the district if it wishes to retain average daily attendance funding from the state.
