Coronavirus in the community

Information and messages about COVID-19, otherwise known as novel coronavirus, continue to be widely reported by the media. The matter is complex and may be hard to accurately predict the duration and full impact of the virus. Bellefonte Area School District is monitoring the pandemic closely and are making the necessary preparations as COVID-19 becomes more prevalent in the community.

Numerous efforts to prevent or decrease the spread of the virus were placed in all district schools as early as February 2020. The nursing staff continuously observes and monitors the health of all students. Nurses were also instructed to remain diligent in terms of sending home students who showed signs of illness, in addition to communicating with families. This will be the same for the 2021-22 school year.

Custodial staff in every building also continue to ensure facilities are clean and all frequently-touched surfaces are sanitized on a daily basis. This is during active school days, during the state-ordered school closure and in the summer when buildings are open, but school is not in session. Learn more about sanitation efforts in the district's Q&A: What are current sanitation plans for district buildings and grounds?

Administrators guarantee that all decisions are made -- and will continue to be made -- with the best interest of students in mind in accordance with state mandates, and consultation with the Center for Disease Control and Prevention and the PA Departments of Health and Education, and can assure the public that the district's first priority is to maintain the safety and wellbeing of all students and staff.