Announcements
New COVID-19 testing method allows for safer classrooms
Austin ISD could test more students for COVID-19 via a new method where students from the same class put their swabs into one testing vial. Why it matters: This new approach — called pooled testing — could allow Austin ISD to target campuses where students…
Austin ISD AP Test Scores remain consistent despite COVID disruption
The recent release of Advance Placement testing scores revealed that despite COVID-19 disruptions, Austin ISD students passed their AP exams at a similar rate to the last two years. The Advanced Placement program is offered in all Austin ISD high…
Get Tested
A new report shows that the more we get tested for COVID-19, the more we keep it out of classrooms. “Face masks and proactive testing are projected to substantially mitigate spread,” says the report from the UT Austin Modeling Consortium. Why it…
Austin ISD Fights COVID-19 Transmission with Picnic Tables
Students at many campuses will soon enjoy the benefits of outdoor spaces with new picnic tables built by the Austin ISD Service Center. The district is building 375 picnic tables to support outdoor classrooms and lunch areas for students.
Fewer students to quarantine under new CDC guidance (En español)
New CDC guidance means fewer students will need to quarantine under Austin ISD’s updated health protocols released Aug. 26. What You Should know: Students do not have to quarantine if they were at least three feet away from students with COVID-19 while…
Austin ISD Announces Staff COVID-19 Vaccine Incentive Programs
Staff could get $250 if fully vaccinated by Oct. 15. Austin ISD staff will now have extra reason to get vaccinated against COVID-19. The district announced two programs aimed to support its staff by providing a financial incentive and the opportunity…
Austin ISD reminds families to keep sick students home (En español)
With the first week of school about to close, Austin ISD is reaching out to families to remind them about keeping students home who are showing symptoms, among other health protocols.
District Looking for Feedback on Safe Return to School Plan (en español)
Austin ISD is looking for input on our safe return to in-person instruction plan. This is part of our submission for $155 million in one-time federal funding, called ESSER funds.
Students in Extracurricular Activities Don't Need Masks During Most Practice, Play (En Español)
Students in extracurricular activities, including athletics, won’t have to wear a mask when outdoors and socially distanced or when engaged in vigorous physical activity.
Austin ISD offering free COVID tests Monday (en español)
Families and staff who live and work in zip codes designated as COVID-19 hot spot can access a free COVID-19 rapid test at one of four drive-thru events this Monday, Aug. 16 from 7-11 a.m. Why it matters: Testing is one of the screening tools…
Masks Mandated at Austin ISD (En español)
Starting Wednesday, August 11, students, staff and visitors will need to wear face masks when on school properties, Superintendent Stephanie S. Elizalde announced late Monday at a school board meeting. "I am responsible for the safety, health and…
Austin ISD releases plan for virtual learning (En Español)
Austin ISD is ready to start in-person learning on August 17, and now there’s a K–6 virtual option available for families as well.