Virtual learning topic of discussion for Big Spring and Forsan ISDs

The Board of Trustees for Big Spring ISD held a Special Meeting yesterday afternoon to hold discussion regarding an Updated Virtual Learning Plan.

During Trustees regular meeting last week, there was consideration of changing Big Spring ISD's current virtual learning program as many of BSISD students were failing one or more classes.

“This is very alarming to not only me, but the campus principles, our teachers, and you as a Board,” McWilliams said.

The meeting adjourned and a moment was held for public comment. With no public comment being made, conversation began with Superintendent McWilliams offering three updated virtual learning plan options for the Board to choose from as follows:

• To leave the current virtual learning plan as-is to see if it improves later in the school year

• To completely remove virtual learning from all aspects of Big Spring ISD and require all students to return to inperson instruction, except in instances of medical needs and/or quarantine needs

• To allow remote learning to continue for students who are not failing academically and/or failing TEA attendance regulations; students who are already failing academically and/or have excessive absences would be required to return to in-person instruction, except in instances of medical needs and/ or quarantine needs

“I understand this is not an easy decision. It's not something you take lightly. It's something that you put a lot of time into and you think, what is best for our kids. These kids are ours and we are accountable for them,” McWilliams said.

According to McWilliams, some Big Spring ISD students have already been removed due to excessive absences and multiple class failures.

Students must be in school for approximately 90% of the school year and cannot exceed more than 18-19 days per school year, according to TEA.

Conversation was then held on other options parents/guardians could take if they would not want their students to return to campuses, being that they would need to file intent for their