Superintendent Provides Update on School’s Progress During Coronavirus Pandemic

The superintendent of Ellwood City Area School District said the last few weeks have been a challenge, but that district staff have come through in a big way.

During Monday night’s online meeting of the Ellwood City Area School District Board of Director’s meeting, Joseph Mancini gave a personal thank you to the administrators, teachers, and cafeteria workers for a “continuity of education” and dedication to district students.

“They have all gone above and beyond in this 180-degree pivot,” he said.

Mancini said at least 978 students were fed today and 1,000 on Friday, numbers he found pride in.

He said learning-wise, the district is at a bit of an advantage because of the board approving Chromebook purchases over the last few years. According to Mancini, that has allowed the district to adapt rapidly to the new way of learning virtually.

He said in addition to having the technology necessary to transition to online learning, the teachers have played an essential part.

“The teachers have been awesome in working to meet the kids’ needs,” he said.

While the teachers have rapidly worked to transition to a new way of teaching, the administrators are quickly learning how to adapt to a new learning climate as well while keeping within the restrictions and mandates of state and federal laws.

Mancini said a big part of his new way of leading the district is daily meetings with other superintendents across the state of Pennsylvania to gain support and knowledge and to share ideas.

He reported that with 35 days of school left, and students staying on track the district is at this time set to wrap up the school year on time—June 2.

According to Mancini, attendance with online learning has been promising. He said at least 90 percent of students typically check in to the online classroom. And that attendance is within 5 percent of a normal school day.

“We are doing our best to continue education,” he said.

Although student assignments are being tracked, the district has yet to implement a specific “grading system” to determine student progress.

The board discussed a few ideas including a pass/fail option and a system of averaging nine-week grading periods, but no final decisions were made during the April 6 meeting.

Board president Renea Pitrelli and board member Barbara Wilson also suggested that prom and graduation ceremonies not be forgotten. They asked that alternative options be considered including still having a prom after social distancing restrictions are lifted.

Mancini said administration and staff will consider alternatives or rescheduling events if at all possible.

The board decided to meet biweekly to remain vigilant during the coronavirus pandemic.