Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Round Rock Independent School District (RRISD) announced the closing of all schools and offices until Friday, April 3. As of now, schools are scheduled to restart on Monday, April 6. Students and staff were informed that the district is planning to implement a virtual learning program, but further details have not yet been sent out. 

The pandemic will have an impact on all standardized testing including Advanced Placement (AP) testing, International Baccalaureate (IB) testing, the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT), and the American College Testing (ACT). The dates for many of these tests have been postponed, however, there are still many undetermined plans for the remaining tests. The College Board has stated that AP tests will consist only of a 45 minute free response section which will be taken at home. The State of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR tests) have been canceled for this year.

“With delayed at-home AP tests, there is an issue about cheating, so that could be a concern. Now I have to re-evaluate my studying plans, but the most important thing is staying safe at this time,” Anavi Nayak ‘21 said.

Although this will affect students in a variety of ways, many students have had a positive reaction to this new situation. While worried about the impacts that COVID-19 will have, some students have stayed optimistic and want to make the best of the situation.

“I think the most important thing concerning [the] coronavirus is public health, and I have trust in our school officials to implement the best safety measures possible,” Aman Tewari ‘22 said. “I am trying to spend the break developing new skills while staying safe.”

In addition to all the changes that have been made to the testing, Principal Mario Acosta sent a letter to students stating that prom has been moved to May 16, but that could change depending on future circumstances. 

“I was really looking forward to prom and am thankful that the administration has worked to still hold the event,” Sathvik Allala ‘20 said. “I did not get to go last year and I am really excited to have this experience this year. But, I do want everyone to stay safe because that is everyone’s priority.”

The district will continue to inform students, parents, and staff and possibly change events depending on the circumstances that arise.