WQED Education says that, although its in-person programs and events at schools and libraries are curtailed until further notice due to coronavirus-related closures, it will continue to support teachers, parents and students through its social media platforms.
“During this uncertain time, WQED is still the ‘school of the air,’ which can be traced to its beginnings. It is the place the community can turn to for trusted educational content and accurate news and information from PBS programming,” said Deborah L. Acklin, President and CEO of WQED, in a release.
“We will be sharing activities, resources, content and health and wellness information across all platforms,” according to the release.
The WQED Education webpage, specifically focused for parents, caregivers, children and families, lists WQED’s children’s television programming and has links to learning activities. The page will update as new information and resources become available, WQED says.
The Pittsburgh public television station also suggests its Writers Contest, running through March 31, as an at-home activity for children.
In addition to ongoing coverage by PBS Newshour, (weeknights at 6 p.m. on WQED) PBS will present special programming concerning the virus and related issues, including:
• “PBS Newshour Presents: Confronting Coronavirus,” 8 p.m. March 19. The program, focusing on public and personal health, will feature a virtual town hall with curated questions from people across America.
• “Spillover,” 9 p.m. March 19. Encore presentation of a film from Tangled Bank Studios and HHMI about how diseases such as Ebola, Zika and Nipah are a rising threat.
• “Coronavirus Pandemic,” 9 p.m. April 21. This “Frontline” episode, airing as part of the PBS Health Initiative, will feature two special reports — one examining the very different responses to the virus in the U.S. by the federal government and the government in Washington State, the epicenter of the outbreak; and another focusing on the impact of the outbreak on the poor, especially children.
• “Frontline,” 9 p.m. April 21: A film examining coronavirus, its impact and the response through the lens of two Washingtons — the state of Washington and the federal government in Washington, D.C.
Details: wqed.org
