EDINBURG — Hidalgo County Local Health Authority Dr. Ivan Melendez issued an order Tuesday for remote learning with no on-campus instruction at all Hidalgo Co. schools until Sept. 27 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. During that time, schools will not be allowed to host any school-sponsored events and activities such as sports and athletic competitions until after on-campus instruction resumes.

The UIL originally had Aug. 3 marked as the first day cross country, football and volleyball teams can officially return to practice in preparation for the 20-21 school year, but that start has been delayed according to the latest order from Hidalgo County.

“Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Ivan Melendez, in his capacity as the Hidalgo County Local Health Authority, issued an order that all public and private schools, from grades pre-kindergarten through grade 12, will not re-open for in-campus instruction until after September 27,” the order signed by Melendez states.

“As per the order, instruction may be provided through virtual, remote, or distance learning only. Administrators, teachers, and staff may conduct or facilitate the remote learning process, or other operations, while on-campus provided they follow all CDC guidelines including social distancing and wearing facial coverings at all times.”

“I commend Dr. Melendez for putting the safety of our students, teachers and district staff first,” Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez said. “As our numbers continue to rise, it is vital that we protect our children and our teachers. Until we can get a getter handle on this virus we must continue to keep our distance from one another.

Schools will not be allowed to host any school-sponsored events and activities, such as clubs, sports, fairs, exhibitions, and academic or athletic competitions, until after on-campus instruction resumes. At least two weeks before resuming on campus instruction, each school district must develop and submit a plan to parents and the public for their re-opening.