Charleroi school board OKs changes during shutdown
By TAYLOR BROWN
tbrown@yourmvi.com
The Charleroi Area School Board had a full turnout for a special meeting Friday that was held virtually.
School board President Ken Wiltz and Superintendent Dr. Ed Zelich were in the community room as usual for the meeting, while other board members and the district solicitor signed on using Zoom software.
“This is why our board works so well,” Wiltz said before the meeting began. “We are willing to go above and beyond and do what is necessary.”
The meeting was needed to approve educational instruction changes to the district related to the spread of COVID-19 and to approve virtual meetings moving forward.
Both agenda items were approved unanimously.
On Monday, the district will begin online education to comply with Gov. Tom Wolf’s extended school closure, which is now in effect until April 6.
“Our plan is to work with recently refined guidance from the U.S. Department of Education, therefore we are poised to move to distance learning based on our district’s curriculum,” Zelich said.
The district identified families in need of technology support before approving the altered education plan.
Chromebooks were distributed to families Friday at local fire departments.
Teachers will begin distance learning Monday using Google software.
“In accordance with the governor’s message, we are planning for the next two weeks and we will adjust as we receive additional directives,” Zelich said. “We ask for and need your patience as we are attempting to implement this approach to schooling, without sacrificing the quality education that our students deserve.
“This will not be without challenges — for the district as a whole, our teaching staff, and for our families. But we assure you, despite the difficulties, we will not waver in our ongoing dedication to doing the very best we can for students.”
The Department of Education canceled all standardized testing scheduled for this spring, which includes the PSSA, PASA and Keystone Exams.
The third grading period for students has ended, but they are still permitted to make up work from the third nine weeks.
Unless Wolf’s order is extended, students will be permitted to return to school April 9.
However, because that would conflict with the observance of religious holidays, Charleroi Area School District is planning to resume classes April 14.
Until then, students will be taught virtually.
For the first two weeks of instruction, there will not be a traditional grading system.
If school is canceled through the remainder of the year, students will be evaluated on a pass/fall system.
If students respond to teachers and participate in assignments, they will receive 100% for the fourth nine-week period.
If they do not, they will receive a 56%.
“The focus for the next two weeks of the school closure is on educational continuity,” Zelich said. “Our goal is to not add to the stress levels of our students, parents or teachers during this unusual situation.
“We simply want our students to keep learning and stay engaged in meaningful ways.”
Wiltz commended district staff and administration for the plan now put into place.
“This plan has taken some time and a lot of energy,” Wiltz said. “We are grateful for all of the administrators and staff who have worked to put this together for our students.”
Special education teachers will also reach out to all parents or guardians and continue to provide education using technology available and will continue individual IEP meetings that may be conducted virtually.
“From the board level, down to our staff, whether it be support, maintenance or bus drivers, we have worked tirelessly to make this transition as smooth as possible,” Zelich said. “We expect there will be some glitches next week and we will work through them.
“We will be fine and will be stronger than ever when all of this is over.”
