Westmoreland County Elementary Closed Over COVID-19

WESTMORELAND CO., Pa. — (WPXI) – Just three days after officials with the Penn-Trafford School District said one of its elementary schools would be closed for five days because three staff members tested positive for the coronavirus, two more have the virus. That prompted Level Green Elementary to shut down for the next 14 days. In a message sent to parents Saturday, the superintendent said these five positive cases caused the district to reevaluate its previous plan. Students will learn remotely during the closure, something not all parents agree with. “I think it’s more disruptive to the kids to sit at home, not interact with their friends, and not learn. I think these are key years for their growth and I think it’s really impacting them by not being in school. I think that’s a far greater risk than their health concerns to be honest,” said Dominic Bergamasco. However, the district said it has an obligation to ensure the health, safety and welfare of all members of the community — not just the schools. Another elementary school in the same district — Sunrise Elementary — is closed due to a staff member testing positive for COVID-19, but it is set to reopen Monday.