(Story by Beaver County Radio News Correspondent Curtis Walsh)

(New Brighton, PA)  New Brighton School Board Met tonight for a meeting that started off with Superintendent Joe Guarino stating that as of now, the New Brighton School District will not require masks and will go back to a full 5-day school week for the 2021-2022 school year.  The only stipulation would be if the health department would decide to reinstate any mandates in the future.  One citizen in attendance was not happy with the stipulation and participated in a heated argument with board president John Ludwig, stating that they felt the district was abusing children by requiring the wearing of masks. Ludwig took strong offense to the comment and assured that children wearing masks is in no way child abuse. Audio of Ludwig’s’ response can be heard below, the citizens’ comments were omitted for the privacy of the child.  The board went on to approve a health and safety plan to follow state and CDC guidelines that is required in order for the district to receive funding through ESSER/ARP.  The board also approved resolution No. 7, which allows the superintendent to develop alternate instructional plans to employ in-person, virtual, and distance learning in accordance to the Pennsylvania School Code.  In addition, the board approved a contract with KeySolution Educational Staffing LLC, to provide school psychologist services until the end of July 2022.  Lastly, the board approved the adoption of a new general fund budget of $26,413,399.00.

Segment of Ludwig’s’ response: