Hopewell Elementary School to remote learn due to number of illnesses among students

ALIQUIPPA, Pa. (KDKA) - The Hopewell School District says Hopewell Elementary School will learn from home for the rest of the week out of an abundance of caution for health and safety. 

According to the superintendent, about 30 students went home sick from school last Friday, with another 130 absent altogether that same day. Although, the school says not all of those absent students were sick. 

The Pennsylvania Department of Health is investigating, but there haven't been any conclusions made, or any recommendations given.

Hopewell School District is offering pre-packaged meals for the week, as well as an internet hotspot. Meals pickup will be on Tuesday, December 20th, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Hopewell Elementary School. 

You can call the Hopewell Elementary School office, at 724-375-6691, for an internet hotspot.

The district released this statement: 

"Last Thursday, Hopewell Elementary School had approximately 20 students leave school ill throughout the day displaying symptoms similar to those associated with gastroenteritis. Families were alerted to this late Thursday for awareness and to allow for family decisions with regards to school attendance on Friday. On Friday, approximately 130 students were absent, and 30 students left school ill displaying similar symptoms. The district has been in contact with the PA Department of Health, and the investigation is on-going at this time. Out of an abundance of caution, the district has decided to move Hopewell Elementary School students to remote, virtual learning this week (Dec 19-22)."