June 22, 2021

The Argyle ISD Board of Trustees unanimously approved face-to-face instruction only for all students for the 2021-2022 school year during Monday's regular meeting.

 

In addition, the Board unanimously approved masks being optional for all students and employees. 

 

Face-to-face learning will be the only form of instruction available to Eagle students. Virtual learning will no longer be an option. The Texas Education Agency recently informed school districts a funding waiver will not be available for virtual learning and House Bill 1468 (funding for virtual learning) failed in the Texas Legislature.

 

As the 2020-2021 year progressed, Argyle ISD had a significant percentage of virtual learners who struggled with engagement, academic performance and virtual attendance. Argyle ISD recommended to the Board that face-to-face learning is the most effective instructional option for Eagle students moving forward. 

 

"I am pleased AISD campuses will be returning to only face-to-face learning when school resumes on August 16," Argyle ISD Superintendent Dr. Telena Wright said. "This will be a refreshing return to learning experience this fall for our students and teachers."

 

During the 2020-2021 school year masks were required for all students grades 4-12. All teachers and staff were also required to wear masks. The School Board lifted the mask mandate for the final two weeks of school after teachers were provided an opportunity to be fully vaccinated following the Argyle ISD COVID-19 vaccine clinic and the district's number of reported cases dropped.

 

Masks were optional for all students and employees at the end of the last school year and that policy will remain in place for 2021-2022.

 

The Board of Trustees also approved a 3% of market pay raise for all employees. The raise includes $1,800 for each teacher, librarian and nurse and a 3% general pay increase calculated on the pay grade midpoint for all other staff.

Additionally, the Board approved bus driver starting pay will increase from $16.52/hour to $20/hour to remain competitive with surrounding districts.