Riverview elementary students to start in-school classes 4 days a week starting Monday

Most Riverview School District elementary students are expected to move from hybrid learning to in-school classes four days a week starting Monday.

Officials recently made the announcement via the district’s website and a letter to families.

Students currently learn through a hybrid model, meaning they are split into two groups with each group in schools a couple of days a week and online on the other school days.

Superintendent Neil English said kindergartners through fourth-graders at Verner Elementary in Verona and Tenth Street Elementary in Oakmont will shift to more in-person classes as the district starts its third grading period.

Wednesday will remain a virtual learning day for everyone so district schools can get a deep cleaning.

“This safety precaution is especially important considering the addition of more students to each building,” English wrote.

Other grades remain in hybrid

It is unclear when fifth through 12th grades will be in school four days a week. They remain in hybrid learning until further notice.

Covid safety protocols are still in place, meaning students and staff need to wear masks while in the buildings.

Parents should check their child’s temperature and keep them home if they are sick.

“We are cautiously optimistic that the spring will bring us greater access to vaccinations, an overall decline in cases, and greater opportunities for students,” English wrote. “However, please keep in mind that although we feel the situation will improve, current cases, transmission rates, and death rates continue to climb, and the situation is still dangerous.

“So please, continue to wear your masks anytime you leave your home, get vaccinated as soon as you are able, and continue to stay peaceful, happy, and safe. We thank you for your continued support, flexibility, understanding, and teamwork.”

School board president Lisa Ashbaugh said the district continues to work toward giving all families the option to have students back in school full time while adhering to state and federal guidelines.

“The younger students’ educational needs have been a big focus and priority for the district, so moving into this schedule for the K-4th grade students is a big win for us,” she said. … We definitely believe it’s safe to bring these students back.

“We still would not have enough room in all of our buildings to bring back the whole district with the current CDC guidelines.”

More information about district activities is available at rsd.k12.pa.us.