BELTON, Texas — Belton Independent School District Superintendent Dr. Matt Smith said he would recommend the board of trustees delay virtual and in-person learning to Sept. 8. Smith notified district staff and families in a YouTube video Friday.
The decision came one day after the Bell County Health Authority ordered all public and non-religious schools in the county to delay the start of in-person classes.
"We know from surveys and feedback events hosted this week with parents and staff that returning to at-school learning is important for a majority of our community," Smith said. "Teachers noted a need for additional time for planning and preparation."
The next school board meeting was scheduled for July 28.
The Temple Independent School District also chose to delay in-person and virtual learning to Sept. 8.
The Bell County Public Health District reported 1,594 active cases of coronavirus Thursday with 18 deaths. The positivity rate was 8.87%.