We are just less than a month away from the fall semester of school starting at Fort Bend ISD and other local districts. Online student instruction will begin on August 17, 2020. TEA is then requiring schools to have a phase in transition to full in-class student instruction.

Last week the Texas Education Agency released additional reopening guidelines for the 2020-2021 instructional year. The new guidance fails to reduce the risk of spreading COVID-19 through our schools, especially in areas where cases continue to rise. TEA is still requiring schools to offer in-person instruction to students who need it every day of the school year, even during the transition period. This is putting our teachers, school district employees, students and their families at risk.

I call on Governor Abbott to issue a statewide order that all school buildings remain closed and instruction be provided remotely until the virus has subsided and it is safe to reopen school buildings under strict safety guidelines. The state, school districts, educators and our medical professionals must work closely together to decide when that time is right for each school district. Full funding for our school districts must continue as well.

I will continue to fight and advocate for our 5.4 million students and approximately 750,000 public school employees and families.

Reynolds is currently serving his 5th term in Texas House District 27, which encompasses areas of Fort Bend County. He serves on the Environmental Regulation Committee and Defense and Veterans Affairs Committee. He is married to his wonderful wife Dr. Jonita Reynolds and has 3 beautiful children.