GOV. ABBOTT SAYS SCHOOL START DATES SHOULD BE DECIDED BY LOCAL SCHOOL OFFICIALS

  

Governor Greg Abbott says the power to decide when schools open this fall should not rest on the shoulders of local government, but on local school boards.

Abbott on Tuesday provided an update on the state’s preparation for the start of school, where he said that local school officials “know best” when it comes to choosing the date that their schools open.  He said start dates should not be determined by the state or a local health authority, but by those who are elected to make decisions specifically for schools.

Abbott maintained the need for local flexibility, as what works for school districts may drastically vary depending on their region.  He encouraged school officials to stay in touch with local health authorities and get their feedback during the reopening process.

During his update, Abbott said the Texas Department of Emergency Management (TDEM) has already sent out over 59 million face masks, more than 24,000 thermometers, over 565,000 gallons of hand sanitizer, and more than 500,000 face shields to schools across the state.  According to Abbott, personal protective equipment (PPE) costs are being covered in part by the state and the federal CARES Act.