Pittsburgh Public Schools on modified lockdown after Texas shooting; covid closes Banksville K-5
Pittsburgh Public Schools will be operating on a modified lockdown Wednesday as a precautionary measure in the wake of Tuesday’s deadly school shooting in Texas.
The shooting at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas, claimed the lives of at least 19 children and two adults.
“At no time should the tranquility of school become the nightmare it has (Tuesday),” Pittsburgh Public Schools said in a statement on its website. “We grieve with the family members of the victims, and our thoughts are with the leadership, staff, children, families and the entire Uvalde Consolidated Independent School District as they face the days ahead following such a tragedy.”
During a modified lockdown, only people with an existing appointment are permitted to enter school facilities. Field trips and outside activities, including recess, will occur only with clearance from school police.
The district also is moving to remote instruction at its Banksville K-5 school after positive covid-19 cases there reached a 5% threshold. The district said students there will receive instruction through synchronous livestreaming on Wednesday and Thursday.
All of the school’s special events and activities have been canceled. No one will be allowed to re-enter the building until Friday.
Jeff Himler is a TribLive reporter covering Greater Latrobe, Ligonier Valley, Mt. Pleasant Area and Derry Area school districts and their communities. He also reports on transportation issues. A journalist for more than three decades, he enjoys delving into local history. He can be reached at jhimler@triblive.com.
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