Update on safety measures for returning to class

As we prepare for classes to resume this week, we continue to monitor COVID-19 data and prepare for a safe return. Dallas County recently returned to level Red as the new Omicron variant has proven to be more easily transmitted than previous strains. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) anticipates the number of positive cases will increase over the next few weeks.

Dallas ISD’s mask requirement, along with other safety measures, has helped keep the number of positive cases down across the district. As staff return to work and classes resume, adhering to the mask protocol will be critical to controlling the spread and keeping students in classrooms. We will continue our mask and quarantine protocols and reassess at spring break. In-person classes will resume Wednesday Jan. 5, as scheduled.

We remain committed to following established safety measures:

• requiring masks
• encouraging vaccinations
• practicing social distancing
• continuing cleaning and hygiene efforts, and
• frequent testing.

Campus nurses will be available to test campus staff and students. We will also have a central testing site at the William H. Cotton Service Center, 3609 Botham Jean Blvd., from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. on Monday, Jan. 3 and Tuesday, Jan. 4.

Those who have been fully vaccinated and are deemed a close contact will not be required to quarantine if they are not displaying symptoms. As always, anyone who displays symptoms of COVID-19 should stay home and contact their health care provider.

The safety and well-being of our students and staff continues to be our top priority. Thank you for your support and commitment to helping keep everyone safe.