Pittsburgh Public School employees who distributed laptops showing covid-19 symptoms

Two Pittsburgh Public Schools employees from Montessori PreK-5 are experiencing covid-19 symptoms after participating in a technology distribution event at Montessori on Friday.

The district said both employees were wearing personal protective equipment and abiding by social distancing guidelines during the distribution.

Both employees have been tested and are awaiting results.

School officials notified parents in a letter.

“We are committed to sharing this type of information with you as the health and safety of our students, family and staff is our number one priority,” the letter said. “As a reminder, the symptoms of covid-19 include a fever, cough and shortness of breath. If you or a member of your family experience any of the symptoms above, we encourage you to please follow up with your primary care physician.”

Pittsburgh Public Schools on Saturday night announced that it would postpone the start of classes from Aug. 31 to Sept. 8, citing a shortage of computer equipment for students.

The academic year will open with remote learning for the first nine weeks.

Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto, during a news conference on Tuesday, encouraged Pittsburgh Public School officials to provide clear information regarding the start of the school year for parents.

“At this point, there really needs to be a strong message back to the parents on when they can expect school to begin,” Peduto said.

He also offered the city’s help as the district finalizes those plans and continues distributing technology to students.