EPISD, SISD boards approve online learning extension through Nov. 6

UPDATE: Socorro Independent School District trustees on Tuesday evening approved an extension to remote learning for students through Nov. 6, following on the heels of EPISD which approved a similar measure earlier in the day.

As things stand currently, SISD officials said in-person instruction will start Nov. 9 for those parents who have selected on-campus for their kids, while remote teaching would continue for those who have chosen to stay with virtual learning.

SISD, like EPISD, said the transition period may be extended further with state permission depending on El Paso's coronavirus situation.

ORGINAL REPORT: EL PASO, Texas -- El Paso Independent School District trustees on Tuesday approved a waiver granted by the Texas Education Association to extend online learning until at least Nov. 6 due to concerns over Covid-19 spread.

The board of El Paso's largest school district, by a 6-1 vote, also authorized district administrators to pursue additional waivers as needed to delay the transition from online classes to in-classroom learning.

EPISD officials have previously indicated that ideally any student return to school campuses wouldn't take place until early next year. But again, the existing TEA waiver only runs through early November.

Coronavirus cases and hospitalizations have been steadily increasing in the El Paso area since early September. Those increases prompted city officials last week to implement tighter restrictions to try and combat the spread.

Tamekia Brown, EPISD's chief academic officer, said the TEA is monitoring the virus situation in El Paso along with the school district.