Today, Coppell ISD announced an extension in the school closure through April 19. Currently, the district plans to reopen April 20 for staff and April 21 for students. Online learning will remain through April 20. 

With Texas having more than 1,700 COVID-19 cases and more than 20 deaths and the United States having the most cases internationally, this school closure is a continued attempt to continue flattening the curve and slow the spread of the novel coronavirus. 

“Please join all of us in CISD as we follow the emergency disaster orders and social distancing restrictions set forth by our city, county and state officials,” CISD Superintendent Dr. Brad Hunt said in the statement. “Together, we believe we can slow down the virus and make a difference for our health care system.”

This school closure comes at a time where normally teachers are wrapping up the curriculum, students are celebrating their accomplishments and seniors are saying their last goodbyes. The closure could be adjusted at the direction of state or national officials if the virus continues to increase. 

“Our schools are not supposed to have empty hallways and quiet classrooms,” Dr. Hunt said in the statement. “I know I speak for our more than 1,200 staff members when I say we truly miss seeing your children’s faces each day… We are doing everything we can to provide meaningful distance learning activities and counseling resources to continue to do what we do best — educate and take care of our children.”

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