So far, nothing about 2020 has been typical, so navigating the intricacies of school life is just par for the course. With every district fending for itself across the country, it feels a bit like the wild west, which is just where we find the great state of Texas. Masks, plexiglass, hand sanitizer, and a number of other precautions are part of the Texan plan to get students back in the classroom. Some teachers are even bring hula hoops and painters tape to help with social distancing rules. It’s important to get creative in a season that feels anything but normal.
The Lowdown on Texas School Plans and State Response
| School Plans | In true Texan form, Governor Greg Abbott has left decision to local school boards and health officials; however, he has argued that blanket decisions should not be made for entire counties. Seemingly in the same breath, local school boards have been encouraged to consider funding in their remaining open decisions but also consider health and safety.
The goal for Texas is to push start dates as needed, take necessary precautions, but to open up in person instruction on a case-by-case basis. Large states need this kind of flexibility; however, it doesn’t also mean that it requires some patience for those dealing with moving goalposts. Virtual, in-person, and hybrid options are available with many school districts. |
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| State Responses | Governor Abbott has mandated masks and social distancing. He has provided protocols for businesses that wish to remain open, including health screenings, employee training, social distancing suggestions, and when possible, work remotely. Offices with more than 10 employees are allowed to be at 50% capacity, with social distancing measures and mask use. |
DEFENSE INDUSTRY EMPLOYERS in Texas
When Buzz Aldrin and Neil Armstrong train for their Apollo 11 mission in your state, you get some bragging rights as an aerospace leader. Their long history with aerospace might even make them the new home for the U.S. Space Command. In late July, word on the street was that San Antonio made it through the first round of cuts, placing it in round two along with 15 other locations that include Houston and Fort Worth.
With Lockheed Martin expanding into TexAmericas Center in a partnership with the Red River Army Depot and BAE Systems’ $150 million campus expansion in Austin, it’s clear that the state continues its close friendship with the national security industry. The state’s large number of military bases and contractors deliver jobs that require top talent. As organizations balance state requirements, company policies, and mission support, contracts continue to be won and employees continue to work from home or with safe office precautions.
Serenity Now
With everything in constant limbo and people weighing in constantly on what leadership is or isn’t doing, it can be stressful. Don’t ignore your mental health as your kids go back to school. The best way to support your family and your workplace is to not ignore your health. So, while the world feels like it’s falling apart and your kid’s school plans are virtual for weeks at a time, invest in options that keep your mental health where it needs to be.
Planning for multiple school options can also help you stay ready for whatever changes blow your way in the next few weeks. Additionally, don’t skimp on communication with your coworkers. While it can be personally hard to navigate education hurdles, at the same time, working on a team means supporting each other. Give your teammates the chance to support you while you get creative with your work schedule.
