As parents, it is our duty to keep our children safe from all harm. It is crucial that Dallas ISD provides virtual learning for children under the age of 12. This way, parents can choose the option that best suits their situation.

Dallas Independent School District is responsible for 153,861 students and 22,222 staff members in 230 schools. Currently, children's hospitals are at 97% capacity, and most classes have not yet begun. Available beds are quickly declining, and medical staff is extremely exhausted, which creates a shortage in the medical field, making it probable that in the following days, we won't be able to find adequate medical attention for our children if needed. As a concerned parent, I strongly believe it is best to play it safe and prevent the virus from spreading among vulnerable children and overwhelming the medical system.   This is especially true since many students travel during summer vacation. Dr. Michael Hinojosa is appreciated for defying Gov. Greg Abbott's mask mandate in order to protect our children, but unfortunately, I am afraid the mask will not be enough protection. Teachers can't keep on top of children at all times to ensure they are wearing the mask appropriately.
Additionally, most students are wearing single-layered face masks, which provide minimal to no protection. Per CDC, the most appropriate mask to wear for Covid is the N95, which not all families have the financial ability to purchase on an ongoing basis as these are expensive. I am not a doctor nor an expert in any way, shape, or form; I'm just a worried community parent with highly at-risk friends and family.

Dallas ISD has already worked on a system for online learning in case of school closure. They have also invested money in providing students with a take-home laptop or tablet. Dr. Michael Hinojosa has recently expressed the possibility of the virtual learning option. DISD must take immediate action prior to the first day of school, which is this upcoming Monday, August 16, 2021. Preemptive action can better ensure the safety of our children, parents, administrators, and teachers. DISD is the largest district in North Texas and the second-largest in the state. Therefore, many other districts will begin to follow DISD's approach.

School districts like Frisco- Richardson and many others have already begun to offer virtual learning. It is imperative that the Texas Education Agency (TEA) continue to provide the funds to allow school districts to offer virtual learning.

Below is a webpage from Dallas ISD addressing COVID-19:

https://www.dallasisd.org/covid19