There has been a change in guidance from the Texas Education Agency regarding COVID-19 cases in schools.
The TEA now says that all districts must notify all teachers, staff and families if a positive COVID-19 test comes from a classroom or an extracurricular activity. Earlier they encouraged notification but did not require it.
Districts must still report positive cases to their local health departments and the state. Local health officials are also allowed to investigate cases in schools.
As far as masks, the agency notes that a ban on mask mandates in an executive order from Gov. Greg Abbott, which prohibits public schools from requiring face coverings, is not being enforced because of an ongoing legal battle.
A flurry of lawsuits and temporary restraining orders have sparked widespread confusion over mask mandates as families send their kids to campus for the new school year.
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