Dear Warrior Family,
What an unprecedented couple of days this has been as we have all been seeing the rapidly changing circumstances surrounding COVID-19. In a matter of days, we have seen sporting events canceled, from the NBA to NCAA to the UIL State Basketball Championships along with closures of cruise lines and even Disneyland. Wow! I want to personally thank you for both the care and concern you have shown around this evolving situation as I have received emails from parents and students asking really important questions about how we are going to remain safe in these coming days/weeks.
As a district, Bonham ISD remains committed to providing an outstanding education in a safe and secure learning environment. Please know that students are always at the heart of our decisions, and we are managing this situation with them and our entire community in mind. As circumstances continue to evolve, we will stay in touch with our community to provide timely and concise information based on the most current guidance from our local, state and federal health authorities.
Due to the March 11, 2020, announcement by the World Health Organization that the outbreak of the new coronavirus has been declared a pandemic, updated announcements by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and information from medical professionals and state and federal health officials, the following action is being taken in an attempt to minimize health and safety risks to the Bonham ISD community.
As a precaution, we are extending spring break by one week. Schools will remain closed Monday, March 16 through Friday, March 20 as we assess the situation in our community as travelers return from spring break. The district will continue to monitor and evaluate the situation prior to reopening school on Monday, March 23, and will communicate across all channels as updated information becomes available. During this extended spring break, District offices, campuses and facilities will be closed and most events will be canceled or postponed. District travel for student competitions and events outside the district will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
We are taking these steps out of an abundance of caution. Public health officials have not yet made this a requirement for public institutions. Nevertheless, given all that we know, and what we can anticipate based on information from local, state and national agencies, including Grayson County Health Services, Texas Health and Human Services, Texas Education Agency and the Centers for Disease Control, we believe this is the most prudent course of action at this time.
Please know that Bonham ISD strives to support your student’s learning during this time. We will provide additional information for how we will support instruction should it become necessary to extend closure beyond next week. We will also be looking at ways to provide meals and other support services to students that they would normally receive during this closure.
Meanwhile, care for yourself, your family and those around you, and continue to adhere to the preventative measures as recommended by public health officials, such as limiting interaction and practicing social distancing. Visit the CDC website for more information.
This is a rapidly progressing situation that impacts every citizen across the globe. Thank you for your patience and partnership as we work together to deliver a successful learning experience for our students under these unprecedented circumstances.
Sincerely,
Kelly Trompler
Bonham ISD Superintendent
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