New Kensington-Arnold reports covid cases at 2 elementary schools, closes 1
New Kensington-Arnold School District has announced positive covid-19 cases at two elementary schools, forcing one to close.
According to a notice from acting Superintendent Jon Banko, the district was notified of three cases at Roy A. Hunt Elementary and one at H.D. Berkey Elementary.
Both schools are in Arnold. Berkey houses students in first and second grade, while students in third through sixth grade attend Hunt.
The district’s notice did not say whether the cases were among students or staff.
Because of the number of cases at Hunt, the school closed Friday, with all students taking classes remotely. Covid protocols require schools with two to four positive cases within 14 days to close for three to five days for cleaning.
Banko said he expects both schools to reopen for students, faculty and staff on Monday.
Anyone who was at risk of exposure has been notified, Banko said.
Banko reminded district residents to remain vigilant regarding covid-19 protocols, including washing or sanitizing hands regularly, maintaining social distancing and wearing a mask.
“While transmission numbers are down, it is obvious that the risk for contracting the virus still exists, and we want everyone to be healthy and safe,” he wrote.
Brian C. Rittmeyer is a TribLive reporter covering news in New Kensington, Arnold and Plum. A Pittsburgh native and graduate of Penn State University's Schreyer Honors College, Brian has been with the Trib since December 2000. He can be reached at brittmeyer@triblive.com.
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