Covid-19 cases trigger closure of Catholic school in Robinson
Archangel Gabriel, a Catholic school in Robinson, is temporarily suspending all in-person instruction because of local covid-19 cases reported over the Thanksgiving break.
According to the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh, three members of the school community tested positive for the illness, resulting from exposure to the virus unrelated to school operations.
Officials said Friday that Archangel Gabriel’s school for grades K-8 and its preschool program will close for four days to mitigate the spread of covid-19. The decision to close the classrooms was attributed to “an abundance of caution” while remaining consistent with recommendations of the state Department of Education.
The goal is for students to return to classrooms on Dec. 7.
“The well-being of our students and staff is our priority,” Principal Cathy Militzer said in a news release. “We will continue with our mitigation efforts to deep clean and sanitize the school.”
Officials said the school continues to follow covid-19-related diocesan and governmental health and safety directives, including wearing face coverings, hand-washing and sanitizing procedures, social distancing and self-screening for symptoms of illness.
Jeff Himler is a TribLive reporter covering Greater Latrobe, Ligonier Valley, Mt. Pleasant Area and Derry Area school districts and their communities. He also reports on transportation issues. A journalist for more than three decades, he enjoys delving into local history. He can be reached at jhimler@triblive.com.
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