Newcastle ISD releases return to school plan

Newcastle ISD released their return to school plan for the 2020-2021 school year Tuesday detailing how the district will reopen and be compliant with COVID-19 pandemic guidelines. Due to the ever-changing nature of COVID-19, the plan may be revised by NISD administration based on information received or unforeseen circumstances.

The plan creation was based on the principles of limiting exposure where possible and maintaining consistent learning, while using the guidance from the Texas Education Agency. The district wrote that because of the uncertainty of COVID-19, students, parents and staff should be prepared for a transition to virtual learning at any time. NISD wrote in their plan that the district is able to deliver instruction to students in a face-to-face method or through an asynchronous method.

“We know disruption during a public health crisis like COVID-19 is very likely,” NISD wrote in the plan. “Although we can expect disruption during the school year, consistent lesson delivery from teacher to student will remain strong either through a more traditional face to face method or through asynchronous learning at home. Google classroom will be the main learning management system Pre-K through grade 12. Regardless of the method of instruction, grades and attendance will be monitored and reported during the 2020-2021 school year.”

Devices will be provided to students who require them and teachers and the technology director will help identify students who need technology assistance.

For the rest of the story, see the Aug. 1 edition of The Graham Leader.