Penn Hills School District students will have the option to return to school full-time or learn online full-time to start the 2021-22 school year.
Superintendent Nancy Hines said that is the plan, barring any recommended changes in safety protocols from the state Department of Health, Allegheny County Health Department and related officials.
“We think we’ve been able to demonstrate that we can operate safely,” Hines said. “It’s a fluid model. We have to remain mindful of changing conditions and updated recommendations. We’re purposely taking our time with it.”
The American Academy of Pediatrics has recommended masks for all students. District employees have been voluntarily wearing masks since July 6.Mask wearing was mandated for students and staff during the most recent school year.
The district offers online learning through its own cyber academy.
A preliminary back-to-school announcement was posted on the district’s website.
The district’s pandemic review committee will make its recommendations to the school board at a buildings and grounds committee meeting at 6 p.m. Aug. 4 at Linton Middle School.
The board is expected to vote on the plan Aug. 18. The first day of school for the more than 3,000 Penn Hills students is Aug. 30.
More information about district activities is available at phsd.k12.pa.us.
