From Leander ISD July 17:

The Leander ISD Fine Arts Department and faculty believe that providing opportunities for high-quality performances is a vital component of a healthy public school fine arts program.  Additionally, we also believe that the value of preparing for, performing in, and attending a performance play a vital role in the health and wellness of the performers, the audience, and the school community.

However, the current pandemic has created a situation that makes it difficult for LISD fine arts programs to operate in the same manner to which we have become accustomed. All of us are committed to the safety and wellness of our students above all other considerations. The need for social distancing in both rehearsal and performance settings, as well as the potential for reduced numbers of students and audience members allowed in any setting, has led us to reluctantly prepare for a school year without large-scale performances such as traditional musicals, concerts, shows, marching band productions, or other similar events.

This decision is one we do not take lightly, as the arts provide a necessary outlet for the expression of thoughts and emotions in an appropriate manner. For many of our students, performing is a vital component of their social and emotional health. Many things are uncertain at this time, including the exact nature of the performance opportunities that will be available for our students; however, what is certain is that our fine arts teachers are committed to providing opportunities for our students that will allow them to express their artistic efforts while maintaining an environment that keeps them as safe as possible. Their ability to create and improvise will be a key component as we adapt to the current situation and modify plans to accommodate.

LISD Fine Arts programs are still here for our students and will continue to provide a safe haven for them whether a child attends school virtually or in-person. And while some things may not look quite the same, please know that our focus remains on what is best for the student.