01 Sep Return to School Information and Health Authority Rules
Guidance for Returning to School
The Austin-Travis County Health Authority adopted new emergency rules that relate to reopening schools to promote the health and safety of Austin-Travis County residents in the fight against COVID-19.
After collaborating with school district leaders, Austin Public Health also released additional guidance on reopening for Austin-Travis County schools. This document helps school boards and administrators understand what they can do to keep students and staff safe as the school year re-starts.
- The practices described in the guidance document are essential baseline actions in order to minimize risk of exposure to COVID-19 for students, staff, and families. The recommendations include additional strategies that schools can use to minimize the spread of COVID-19. All recommended practices will not be possible in every setting and should be tailored to each school or district as appropriate.
- The guidance in the document is based on the best available evidence at this time. APH guidance for schools may be updated throughout the school year as new information becomes available.
Resources for Returning to School
Many of the determinations related to school openings lie with school boards and school systems. Please contact your school administration for specific information about your school’s back-to-school plan.
Legal guidelines for returning to school are determined by the Texas Governor’s Office, the Texas Attorney General’s Office, and the Texas Education Association. Determinations by these entities overrule any orders or rules set by local authorities.