Breaking News

COVID-19

‘Learning pods’ gaining support

More local organizations are using “learning pod” programs to support students who are learning virtually. Amy Detwiler, administrative assistant for the Center City Church in Altoona, said the church launched a pod program called the Learning Hub during the first week of school. “I think school districts having to make last-minute decisions based on CDC recommendations caused some panic for parents,” she said. The church, she said, looked to fill new needs of parents and allay their fears. Detwiler said the program has “upward of six to 10 students” in the hub, ...

States to get millions of virus tests

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump announced Monday that the federal government will begin distributing millions of rapid coronavirus tests to states this week and urged governors to use them to reopen schools for students in kindergarten through 12th grade. The move to vastly expand U.S. testing comes as confirmed new COVID-19 cases remain elevated at more than 40,000 per day and experts warn of a likely surge in infections during the colder months ahead. It also comes just five weeks before the November election, with Trump facing continued criticism for his handling of the ...

Senate panel OKs nurse aides bill

HARRISBURG — The state Senate Education Committee approved a bill last week that would allow temporary nurse aides hired during the COVID-19 emergency declaration to receive certification to continue working in the field. At the outset of the pandemic, Pennsylvania authorized individuals to be hired as nurse aides on a temporary basis after they completed an approved eight-hour online training and passed a preliminary examination. Unfortunately, under current law these individuals will no longer be able to work as nurse aides once these temporary provisions expire. Senate Bill ...

Bellwood-Antis School District OKs full, in-person classes

BELLWOOD — Bellwood-Antis School Board members Thursday decided to continue with full student, in-person instruction, unless circumstances warrant a re-examination. “We will continue with face-to-face instruction as we have been. Those parents wishing to maintain their children in our virtual program can still do so. We will alter this model if the state mandates it or if the number of COVID cases warrant a change,” said Superintendent Thomas McInroy. In August, board members, as part of a revised school reopening health and safety plan, approved using a hybrid model effective ...

Portage Area School District reports virus case

A member of the Portage Area School District has tested positive for the coronavirus, according to a statement from Superintendent Eric Zelanko. As a precautionary measure following the diagnosis, Portage Area High School will be closed to students from today until Friday. Portage Area Elementary School will operate as normal. The district cannot share the identity of the individual who tested positive, and Zelanko said he is “cooperating with state health officials to address the health and safety concerns of students and staff.” Contact tracing is being done to identify ...

‘Happy to be here’ — Local sports fans return to the stands

The Altoona Area High School football team finally kicked off its season Friday night at Mansion Park when the Mountain Lions hosted Cumberland Valley in front of a crowd of family, friends and supporters. Altoona won, 28-14. See game story on Page B1. Altoona’s school board took advantage ...