As COVID-19 cases grow at San Marcos ISD, staff presents plan to reduce numbers after holidays

The number of COVID-19 cases at San Marcos CISD has been rising steadily since early September, with the total number of cases throughout the district reaching 86 by Dec. 7.

At the district’s Dec. 14 meeting, staff presented its plan to mitigate case numbers once students return to school after the holidays.

SMCISD Superintendent Michael Cardona told the board district staff will still return to campuses Jan. 4 but will request families who have the ability to keep their children in remote learning from Jan. 5-11.

“We figure Jan. 1 and Jan. 2 are when families are going to get together during New Year’s Eve,” Cardona said, adding if students need to be in school beginning Jan. 5, they should be. “Our schools are going to be open, but we are asking for a favor.”

Students having trouble reaching academic success through remote learning or whose parents have to work during school hours are included among those welcomed back to campus, Cardona said.

SMCISD Communications Director Andrew Fernandez began reaching out to parents regarding the district’s plans the week of Dec. 14.

Who will attend in-person learning at SMCISD on Jan. 5

• Students whose parents need them in school
• Students who were contacted by their respective campus to return
• Students who are new to the district as of January

Who will stay home Jan. 5

• Students who remained successful in remote learning in the fall
• Students with medical exemptions