The district was closed Jan. 26 through Jan. 30 because of the COVID-19 surge. The district reported coronavirus cases involving middle school and high school students increased nearly 500% over the past 10 days. Staff absences districtwide, which have been running between 700 and 800 per day, peaked at 1,048 on Jan. 21, according to LISD officials on Jan. 24.
“After reviewing our data and trends this weekend, we are confident we will be able to return to our regular daily operations at all campuses and facilities,” interim Superintendent Gary Patterson said in a letter to LISD parents and staff. “We are thankful to say our projected staff and student absences are significantly improved after the five-day break.”
District staff are in discussions about addressing the lost instruction time, Patterson said in the letter.
The district continues to work to increase its substitute pool to avoid future district closures related to staff illness, Patterson said. Those interested in becoming a substitute can find more information and apply on the district’s website.
