Texas Governor Greg Abbott has extended a previous executive order, closing all Texas schools until May 4, amid the novel coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic.
Initially, in an executive order, Abbott made on March 19, schools were to remain closed until April 4, along with gyms, bars, in-room dining in restaurants, hair salons and tattoo studios. Those businesses will remain closed until April 30, according to the new executive order.
Pearland ISD Superintendent John P. Kelly said:
Dear Pearland ISD Families:
After consulting with health officials, Governor Abbott’s announcement today, along with President Trump’s announcement to extend social distancing through April 30, Pearland ISD is joining other area school districts in extending the suspension of normal operations at least until Monday, May 4, to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
All extracurricular activities and school events have been cancelled during the same period. Remote learning and Grab & Go Meals will continue throughout the closure. District staff and teachers will continue to regularly check and respond to emails and voicemails.
We understand our kids are missing experiences, and we are hurting for them. But at this point we cannot predict the restoration of such activities in April, May or June. While our hundreds of senior students will complete high school requirements and be pronounced as graduates, it remains very uncertain whether an accompanying ceremony can or will occur.
Pearland ISD’s remote learning opportunities will continue and can be accessed at www.pearlandisd.org/onlline. For remote learning assistance, contact your child’s teacher directly or send an email to onlinelearningsupport@pearlandisd.org.
Given the uncertainty of the COVID-19 situation, we will continue to work closely with local, state and federal leaders implementing their stay-at-home directives.
Please join all of us in Pearland ISD as we follow the emergency disaster orders and social distancing restrictions set forth by our city, county, state and federal officials. Together, we believe we can slow down the virus and make a positive difference for our healthcare system. The district will remain flexible as leaders plan for long-term delivery of virtual instruction and continue to navigate the many details of this unprecedented situation.
Thank you, parents and families, for your patience and support during these difficult times. While we can’t congregate, we can be compassionate. We ask for grace as we navigate this uncharted territory together with you.
We pledge to keep you informed about any new developments during this extended facility closure. We look forward to the day when we can reopen our doors and welcome back your children.
May God continue to bless Pearland ISD!
Sincerely,
John P. Kelly, Ph.D.
Superintendent of Schools
As of March 31, there are 3,266 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Texas. Forty-one of those people have died.
Read Governor Abbott’s executive order here.