Gov. Greg Abbott says Texas students will return to public schools in person this fall.
That's according to state lawmakers and Texas Education Commissioner Mike Morath who told The Texas Tribune: "It will be safe for Texas public school students, teachers, and staff to return to school campuses for in-person instruction this fall. But there will also be flexibility for families with health concerns so that their children can be educated remotely, if the parent so chooses."
The Texas Education Agency is expected to release guidance for school districts next Tuesday.
Abbott has long said his intention is for students to return in-person this fall, saying this week that there will "definitely be higher safety standards in place than when they opened last year."
Democrats have raised alarm about the pace at which the governor is reopening the state, claiming it's putting people's health at risk.
"Abbott’s failed leadership has cost lives and has led to Texas becoming one of the most dangerous states to live in during this pandemic," said Texas Democratic Party Communications Director Abhi Rahman in a statement Thursday.