Pittsburgh Catholic schools plan temperature checks, masks for students

Elementary schools in the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh are set to reopen Aug. 27, and high schools have staggered start dates, the diocese announced Tuesday.

Daily temperature readings will be required for students, teachers and staff; school buildings will be disinfected regularly, classrooms will honor social distancing and a mask policy will be in place. In addition, visitors and volunteers will be limited, large events will have social distancing rules and virtual learning will remain an option for students and parents who prefer it.

“As a faith community committed to our mission, we will respond to the fluid nature of this public health emergency with recommendations that reflect science, consultation with experts and consistency with Catholic social teaching,” said Michelle Peduto, director of Catholic Schools. “Our top priority is the safe return of our students to their classrooms.”

A planning team started conferring June 4, including principals, administrators and representatives from the diocesan schools office. The team has met online two or three times a week, reviewing research from experts and surveying parents and teachers.

A draft of more comprehensive, detailed guidelines will be sent to parent and teacher focus groups, consultants and diocesan officials for feedback, the diocese said.

Peduto said families and school employees are reaching out with questions as the diocese navigates “uncharted waters.”

“We are full of hope for our new school year,” she said.

The Greensburg Catholic diocese did not release its school plans Tuesday.

“The plans for reopening schools are in development based on state recommendations,” said diocesan spokesman Jerry Zufelt.