Deer Lakes School District excited to be back in-person for the school year

Deer Lakes students returning to school will be recognized in a big way this school year when they walk in the school’s entrance.

A new “High Honors” display wall will be used to highlight students’ accomplishments including student of the month, athlete of the month, honor students and other accolades. School officials hope to hold an event to show off the new display.

“The staff thought it was important moving forward to show how proud we are of our students and what they accomplish,” district spokesman Shawn Annarelli said.

Students in the Deer Lakes School District returned to school in-person Wednesday.

Students were given the options to attend school in-person five days a week or learn online.

If attending in person, students are encouraged to maintain a distance as best they can. Masks are recommended but not required.

The district is monitoring for any covid cases to report to the Allegheny County Health Department to ensure the safety of students as they attend classes in-person.

”We will stay focused on making sure we are trying to do what’s best for our students each and every day,” Annarelli said.

Annarelli said 40 out of 1,800 students chose remote learning.

What’s new

The district has renovations and added technology at the high school.

Students interested in robotics or manufacturing can look forward to a new state-of-the-art CDC equipment to advance their skills and extend opportunities.

In addition to new technology, Annarelli said the school will continue to focus on mental health support by implementing trauma informed instruction to make sure kids who are affected by trauma continue to keep up their studies and have a positive school experience.

Annarelli said there was a positive buzz going around the school district on the first day.

“I thought the first day was amazing. It was really thrilling to see people and everyone catching up,” said.