Some Fox Chapel Area, Shaler Area school facilities to be off-limits to public

Some facilities at Fox Chapel Area and Shaler Area school districts will be off-limits to the public to reduce the risk of coronavirus contamination and meet Allegheny County’s restrictions on outdoor gatherings.

At Fox Chapel Area, all buildings and grounds — including the high school track — will be closed for recreational purposes between 7 a.m. and 4 p.m. weekdays.

“Because of covid-19, we are using outdoor space as much as possible with students for classes, lunch, recess and mask breaks,” Bonnie Berzonski, district coordinator of communications said.

Fox Chapel Area students headed back to class on Aug. 24, with district families given the option of returning two days in-person or choosing an entirely online learning model.

For those in district buildings, schedules and operations have been altered to limit transitions and numbers of students in one place. Using outdoor spaces is among the solutions for reducing crowds and stemming possible contamination.

Berzonski said the district will abide by health and safety guidance from Allegheny County and the state and will reopen the facilities when possible.

“We know our community enjoys utilizing our grounds,” she said.

At Shaler Area, Titan Stadium will be closed to the public in the evenings and partly Saturdays so the district’s sports teams can practice.

The facility will be off-limits from 3 to 9 p.m. weekdays and from 8 a.m. to noon on Saturdays.

“The track facility is open for public use for walking and running only at all other times during the week,” Bethany Baker, communications specialist, said.

Other types of activities, including recreational sports, are currently prohibited at district fields.

With classes beginning on Sept. 8 at Shaler Area, students will spend the first four weeks of classes entirely online.

Residents who want to walk or run at night can use the Biles Field track at the high school, as well as the track at Shaler Area Elementary School, which will both remain open.

Baker reminded visitors to practice social distancing and other covid-19 mitigation practices.