Hempfield to continue with remote learning through holidays

Students in the Hempfield Area School District will continue with remote learning until after the holidays.

According to a letter posted on the district’s Facebook page, schools will reopen Jan. 4, following the Christmas break. The decision to keep schools closed came days after school board members reaffirmed that students would return to in-person classes through the hybrid model beginning Monday.

“In consultation with Excela physicians, we have decided to take this necessary step to promote the safety of our students, staff and community,” the letter reads.

Covid-19 cases have been on the rise in Westmoreland County, and another high for covid-19 cases was set Friday, the second straight day a record was set. On Friday, 412 new cases were reported, following Thursday’s 400 case count. That brings the total number of cases in the county to 10,455.

Four new coronavirus-related deaths were reported Friday, bringing the county’s total deaths to 299.

The district has seen a number of coronavirus cases among staff and students. Prior to the break, 35 cases were reported for the period between Nov. 11-25, according to a covid-19 tracker on the district’s website, with the majority of cases reported at the high school.

Hempfield students this week attended classes remotely following the Thanksgiving break.

A free breakfast and lunch will be provided daily between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Food can be picked up at the high school, Maxwell Elementary School, Stanwood Elementary School, Wendover Middle School and West Hempfield Elementary School. Technology support will be provided at the high school during those same times.

Students attending the Central Westmoreland Career and Technology Center may continue to do so virtually or in-person. Transportation options will be shared on the district’s website.

“We recognize the challenges this creates for our students and families,” the letter reads. “The safety and well being of our students, staff and community is our top priority.”