Plum School District students to return to hybrid class schedule Jan. 11

Plum School District officials plan to welcome students back to school in a hybrid class schedule in a few weeks.

Administrators had previously slated the first Monday in January as a return date for students and staff after being moved to all virtual learning due to rising covid cases both in the district and Allegheny County.

The new return date is Monday, Jan. 11.

The hybrid scheduling splits students into two groups each attending in-person classes two days a week and remote learning on off days.

“This extension will permit an appropriate number of days for those who may have been exposed over the holiday period to come to school without fear of impacting others,” Superintendent Brendan Hyland said Tuesday night.

A letter was sent to district parents informing them of the change.

“We have communicated throughout this national crisis that families should do their best to have strategies ready that will allow for the greatest degree of flexibility so they are able to react as circumstances warrant,” the letter read. “We sincerely thank you for your tremendous cooperation along with your willingness to face the challenges together that this once-in-a-century pandemic has presented for us all.”

The letter encourages families to “continue to share if your child experiences any symptoms of covid” while on winter break.

It asks those impacted to contact their health care provider and notify the district through their child’s school nurse using a form.

“The health and safety of our students and staff will remain our top priority,” the letter read. “It is our sincerest hope that your family has a wonderful holiday season, and that 2021 will give us all a much needed shot in the arm.”

School board President Mike Devine echoed Hyland’s comments about using some more time to ensure a safe return for the young learners.

“I’m excited to get our kids back in school for in-person instruction,” Devine said. “We did what we had to do for the end of November and through December, but it’s time to get them back in the buildings. Taking that extra week after break will provide a safe return for our students and staff.”

More information about district activities and how it is handling the pandemic is available at pbsd.net.