Charleroi extends virtual learning

By TAYLOR BROWN

tbrown@yourmvi.com

Charleroi students will not return to the classroom as soon as they had hoped. 

The Charleroi Area School District extended virtual learning through the new year, with the intention of bringing students back to class for a hybrid schedule next week. However, administrators have decided to stick with virtual learning through at least the end of the month. 

Charleroi students have been learning virtually since Nov. 23.

With cases still trending up in Washington County, Superintendent Dr. Ed Zelich said new guidance from the Pennsylvania Department of Education and state Department of Health led to the decision. 

“I am sure that you are aware of the increased spread of COVID-19 in Washington County and the surrounding areas,” Zelich said in a message to parents. “Our county has entered the ninth consecutive week of substantial Covid-19 transmission rates.”

The Pennsylvania Department of Education and state Department of Health recommend virtual learning for all counties with a substantial rate of transmission.

Counties in the substantial category have positivity rates above 10%. Counties that remain in the substantial category for 14 consecutive days are advised to move to 100% virtual learning.

Zelich said increased positive cases, which require those with the virus to quarantine, have adversely affected the teaching and learning process.

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