Plano ISD preparing for 'best-case scenario' of full return in fall; remote learning still on table

Plano ISD is reviewing several plans for the fall that include a possible full return of all teachers and students, but the district’s path forward remains undetermined.

The district is waiting for guidance from the Texas Education Agency before deciding whether to reopen partially, reopen fully or continue with completely remote instruction, Superintendent Sara Bonser told parents in a May 20 video message.

“In the meantime, the district has been planning for what safety protocols need to be in place to safely bring staff back into the district this summer, and then again in the fall, and then safety protocols for students for the fall,” Bonser said.

The district will offer summer learning opportunities, which Bonser said may be particularly important for some older students trying to stay on track for graduation.

Bonser acknowledged remote learning has been a challenge for the district and for students. Schools are already preparing to reinforce what was taught this semester if and when students return in the fall, she said.

“Our hope is—and our plan right now—is that we would all come back,” Bonser said. “That would be the best-case scenario, is that we could have teachers and students in the classrooms.”