Williamsburg Schools to Remain 'Virtual' Through Dec. 11

For the past two weeks, the Williamsburg Community School Board has hosted two meetings – one on Tuesday, Nov. 17, and a special meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 24.

On Nov. 24, the school district announced that all schools would be “full virtual” until Dec. 11, and return to face-to-face instruction on Monday, Dec. 14.

School board President Dr. Barry England said that the school board had a “thorough, hearty discussion,” and that “it was a very difficult decision to make, but we want the kids in school.”

England encourages all in the community and district to “do their part” to make sure students can come back Dec. 14.

Jamie Shultz asked during the meeting about seniors who have yet to accomplish their community service requirement hours.

Superintendent Lisa Murgas said that there had been “no state communication” in regards to this requirement, but encouraged Shultz that a discussion can be had closer to graduation if hours had not yet been met.

During the Nov. 17 school board meeting, it was approved that students would attend LiveStream sessions with teachers; students will be able to log on from home to have direct, live teaching from current teachers.

The board also approved Title IX resolution, which is the federal law regarding sexual harassment and the district’s obligation to investigate all charges of sexual harassment from students or staff. The resolution acceptance means the district will follow the federal guidelines until the school district has policy in place and it becomes board approved. Murgas also discussed some more purchases from the safe schools money from last year – which was used for the school police officer, upgraded security cameras and door locks.

Murgas also reported that she had a meeting with borough and township officials for their annual transportation meeting for snow days, early dismissals, etc. Murgas then praised fall athletics, saying she was “very proud of all teams and their success.”

Elementary Principal Jennifer Metzler discussed with board members about the sock drive with the elementary collecting 864 pairs of socks. She then discussed that parent/teacher conferences have been held virtually on Monday, Nov. 23, and Tuesday, Nov. 24.

The school district approved a Memorandum of Understanding with the Spring Cove School District for wrestling co-op for the 2020-21 and 2021-22 school years. Parents whose children are enrolled are responsible for fees.

The board reappointed Tanya Horton as the Elementary Technology Coordinator.