HARRISBURG, Pa. — The Secretary of Health and Secretary of Education announced Thursday a change in policy when it comes to schools in what are considered substantial spread counties.
Up until now, the state recommended students only do classes virtually from home.
The change gives districts the option to do blended or hybrid learning for elementary schools.
The state still recommends all virtual for middle and high schools.
The Secretary of Education stressed these are only recommendations. It is up to districts to decide.
"We know educators and families know students benefit from being in the classroom. Research has showed this is also true for our youngest learners, those at the elementary age. As we encourage schools to consider to return to some form of in-person instruction, provided that they meet all the other mitigation conditions," said Noe Ortega, Secretary of Education.
Every week, the Department of Health designates counties as having a low, moderate, or substantial risk of community COVID-19 transmission based on two standard public health metrics: incidence rate and the percent positivity of diagnostic testing.
Since the school year began, the Department of Education has developed and shared health and safety guidelines, tools, and recommendations with school communities.
Public schools in counties with a substantial level of transmission are required to sign an attestation form affirming that if they are providing any type of in-school instruction, that Department of Health guidelines regarding face coverings and confirmed cases are being followed.