PISD was developing a permanent virtual school option for students to begin in the fall, provided legislative approval for funding was received. However, the regular session of the Texas Legislature ended May 31 without final approval of a bill that would have expanded online learning and provided funding for full-time virtual students.
“Upon learning that [House Bill] 1468 did not pass, Plano ISD waited to hear if the Texas Education Agency would provide a waiver that would allow the district to offer a virtual option,” the district’s email states. “On June 3, 2021, the Texas Education Agency informed the district that a funding waiver for remote learning will not be an option. Regrettably, this means that Plano ISD will not be able to offer a virtual academy this fall.”
When the virtual academy option was discussed during the April 20 board of trustees work session, district staff said it would be a standalone school, with its own curricula and staff, for students who still have health concerns or need the flexibility.
Students who have already completed the preliminary registration process for the planned virtual academy will now resume enrollment at their home campuses, according to the email.
The first day of school is Aug. 11.
