During Whitehall-Coplay School Board’s Sept. 22 meeting, the board announced Water Street is currently closed. A barrier and gate have been set up while new lighting is installed. The township confirmed access will be maintained to the bus stop at Eberhart and Water streets.

Families were notified by the transportation department and will have the option for pickup at that location when weather permits. Because the area is prone to flooding during heavy rain, students can also be picked up at Second Street and Lehigh Avenue.

“The school district never said that we would not provide a van to that area. What was accurately stated was that we don’t have a van or a driver,” Superintendent Christopher Schiffert said. “Given the scope of how many kids we transport, the distances we cover and the fact that we serve students across this entire area, this was not something we didn’t want to do but something we were unable to do.”

Due to weight restrictions, buses are not permitted to travel in that area.

“We’ve worked collaboratively with the township to come up with safe solutions for students affected. We will do our best to transport them safely,” Schiffert added.

Also at the meeting, a Whitehall High School Student Council representative shared updates on recent activity. The high school recently held picture day, along with a 9/11 remembrance display and ceremony. As part of the observance, volunteers placed 2,977 flags near the display to honor the lives lost Sept. 11, 2001. A ceremony was also held during the first period.

The Class of 1975 toured the building and was recognized at that week’s football game. Additional events included meet the teacher and financial aid nights, where parents met with teachers and learned about scholarships and financial aid opportunities.

In addition, cheerleaders performed at Steckel Elementary School to help kick off the academic year, and the Marching Zephyr Band received a new trailer dedicated to the late Bobby Worman, a longtime district employee and devoted volunteer for the band, who died in 2022.

Student Council is preparing to host the upcoming regional conference at WHS, an event that brings students from different schools together to connect and learn from one another.

In other school board news, members thanked Fellowship Community for its generous donation of school supplies to the district, as well as Officer Christman, a school resource officer with Whitehall Township Police Department, for also providing supplies to students.

The treasurer’s report, along with bills and salaries, was submitted for approval and was passed unanimously.

The next committee meeting is set for 4 p.m. Oct. 13, and the next regular board meeting will be held 7 p.m. Oct. 27.