As part of the “Finish Strong ‘21” campaign, Dallas ISD is urging all seniors to return to on-campus learning full time starting Monday, April 12.
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about this campaign.
What is the “Finish Strong ‘21” campaign?
The Finish Strong ‘21 campaign is Dallas ISD’s effort to get as many high school students as possible back to in-person instruction, 5 days a week, beginning on April 12th. The priority will be for seniors to return to ensure they are on-track to graduate and to give them a memorable end to their senior year.
Are the seniors being asked to attend class every day of the week?
We’re asking seniors to attend in-person every day, Monday to Friday, starting April 12.
Why should the seniors return to on-campus class, five days a week?
Our seniors have worked hard to get to this point but have not been able to enjoy a traditional senior year experience. We want our seniors to finish their high school career together in a memorable way.
Meanwhile, for our seniors who are currently off track, attending school in person five days a week will help them get back on track to graduate.
We do ask seniors with extenuating circumstances who feel they cannot attend in-person class five days a week to contact their school’s front office to learn what support and options are available to them.
Is it safe for seniors to return? What is Dallas ISD doing to ensure the safety of my son/daughter?
Yes, it is safe for seniors to return to in-person learning. Our high schools have the building capacity to safely serve all seniors on-campus. All current campus safety protocols will remain in place. The wearing of masks is required for all students and staff members, and plexiglass partitions are in place where needed. It is important to know that all classrooms, hallways, and common areas are cleaned and sanitized daily; students will maintain social distancing protocols; and students will have mandatory temperature checks before entering the campus. While district data shows that our Covid-19 cases have dropped significantly over the past few months, the district is encouraging any student over 16 years of age to get vaccinated, in line with CDC guidelines.
Will there be senior activities planned for students?
Campuses have been cleared to host senior activities for students, if all safety guidelines and protocols are followed. Senior activities will vary for each high school. Some of the most popular activities that campuses are planning include: Senior breakfast, Senior luncheon, panoramic pictures, Senior awards, and Senior lock-ins. Many of these activities will be held during the school day, which is another reason we are strongly encouraging 100% of our seniors to return to in-person instruction.
Will there be a prom for high school seniors?
Yes. Currently all high schools are making final plans for hosting and providing a prom for our students. In order to attend prom, students must test negative on a district-administered rapid Covid-19 test the day before the scheduled prom. Campuses will communicate details regarding prom, rapid Covid-19 testing, and other senior activities.
What is the plan for graduations?
The district is moving forward with planning for in-person graduations for all high schools. We want all our seniors to be able to experience an in-person graduation with their family and friends being able to see them walk across the stage.
In the event there is an increase in Covid-19 cases, the district has two alternate options. The first alternate is an in-person modified graduation ceremony with only the graduates being in person. There will not be any audience members and family and friends will watch the ceremony live streamed on their TV or devices. The second alternate is a virtual pre-recorded ceremony.
