Charleroi adopts virtual learning for two weeks
By TAYLOR BROWN
tbrown@yourmvi.com
Charleroi students will move to a two-week virtual learning model starting Monday in response to the rise of COVID-19 cases in the region.
During Tuesday’s meeting, the board of education unanimously agreed it would be the best — and safest — option for students and staff.
Students will attend classes virtually from Monday through Nov. 25 and again from Dec. 1 to 4. The district will be closed Nov. 26 to 30 for Thanksgiving break.
Students and staff — aside from first grade students who have been virtual since last week due to an outbreak — will continue hybrid instruction this week to prepare.
“We needed to take a deep look at this,” said Superintendent Dr. Ed Zelich. “This is happening in many districts around us, especially in the counties where the level of transmission is considered to be substantial. This is a difficult time for us, our students, our teachers and our staff and we are trying to get through this.
“We have more online students than ever before, mandated to quarantine periods, struggles to find substitutes, and all of those challenges have led us to the decision to hit the pause button with in person learning for right now with a goal to come back Monday, Dec. 7.”
Mon Valley Career and Technology Center students can attend classes in person at the MVCTC if they choose and will have access to transportation provided by the district.
Zelich said the number of coronavirus cases in early December will affect the district’s goal of resuming in-person learning.
“This will be dependent on the status of COVID-19 in Washington County coming out of the Thanksgiving holiday,” he said. “… You are welcome to keep your child online when we return, if you choose to do so.
“We know this is a difficult time and this temporary closure won’t be easy for many families. Please know that we continue to act in the best interest of our students and staff, with their health and safety at the forefront.”
Families who choose to remain in virtual learning will need to notify their child’s school guidance counselor before returning from the holiday break.
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