Release of Updated COVID-19 Data Moves PPS Board to Build Resolution to Postpone In-Person Learning to April 2021
New Date Aligns with Anticipated Completion of Employee Vaccination Rollout
PITTSBURGH January 20, 2021 – COVID-19 numbers released for Allegheny County this past Friday have prompted the Board to consider halting the return to in-person hybrid learning. The resolution, presented at this evening’s Agenda Review Meeting, would postpone the phased-in approach until after Spring Break, April 6, following the anticipated rollout of the COVID-19 vaccine to employees. The Board will vote on the resolution at its January 27 Legislative Meeting next week.
“No one wants students back in school more than I do,” said Board President Sylvia, who brought forward the resolution. “With COVID-19 numbers lingering in the substantial range and the genuine concerns raised by our teachers and staff of returning before the vaccine is available to them, I have to support the tough decision to postpone the return of students for in-person learning.”
Last week, Superintendent Anthony Hamlet notified all PPS staff of an upcoming early opportunity to access COVID-19 vaccinations as part of the statewide Phase 1B distribution of the new vaccine in Allegheny County. To support the return to in-person learning for all students, Allegheny County Health Department, UPMC, and UPMC Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh are working with the District to develop a plan to serve all staff and school district bus drivers desiring vaccination. Staff received an interest survey this week.
“Getting our students back for in-person instruction is of the utmost importance,” said Superintendent Anthony Hamlet, Ed.D. “I understand the concerns raised by the Board; however, I am very concerned about the students who we know are struggling with remote learning. We will make it a priority to review options to make up learning loss, including increased professional development and new summer learning opportunities.”
Parents and families will be notified of any changes to the schedule for the return to in-person hybrid learning following next week’s Board vote.