Hello, I am a student currently enrolled at the Blairsville-Saltsburg school district.  I decided to start this petition not because I dislike home/school work, but because accomplishing school work at home is taxing.  I would like to note an education is important, although teachers assigning tasks to accomplish online with limited assistance is not an education everyone can fulfill.  The majority of the assignments have to be self-taught. Although learning is necessary, the district’s curriculum is focused on standardized tests like the PSSAs and Keystones. It is apparent that these standardized tests are absent due to the strange situation the world is currently enduring. Yes, gracious teachers are far more than willing to help, but it is difficult for them to assist students through email. Due to the current situation, teachers are limited with certain aspects of assistance. With this limited assistance, it is nearly impossible for every student to fulfill assignments without stress or a complete understanding. In this time of crisis, I believe that we should be focused on our families’ health and safety. I also believe students should not be punished for this crisis.  This “punishment” would include extending school into June. Fourth-nine-weeks are usually filled with preparing for annual standardized tests and finals with minimal new materials being taught. With that being noted, I believe students should be offered an optional homework assignment during this particular last nine-weeks.