'Open Our Schools': Montco Parents Organize Several More Protests

NORRISTOWN, PA — A group of parent protesters calling for Montgomery County to reverse its decision to close schools to in-person instruction for two weeks has planned several more demonstrations this week to protest the decision.

The group, which gathered at the home of Commissioner Val Arkoosh early Sunday, plans to demonstrated in Norristown on Wednesday and Saturday mornings, and then again at Arkoosh's Wyndmoor residence Sunday.

"Over the past several months, many children have been isolated from school, teachers, friends and sports," said organizer Kaitlin Derstine. "(There is) skyrocketing depression and anxiety within many households within our community. The numbers of depression, anxiety, and suicide have been ignored and not given nearly enough attention by elected officials making these critical decisions for our community."

>>Protesters To Demand Montco Schools Open, Thousands Sign Petition

The county Board of Health ordered last Friday that all Montgomery County schools go fully virtual for two weeks, beginning Nov. 23. Derstine and other concerned parents say the fear of the order being extended indefinitely is "alarming," even though Board of Health Chairman Michael Laign said that Dec. 7 was set in stone as a return date.

On Sunday, around 40 people gathered in front of Arkoosh's Wyndmoor home.They stood in socially distant groups in the street and wore masks. Some held signs reading "Schools are Safe" and "Open Our Schools," yelling cheers and chants in support of keeping classrooms open.

The group will demonstrate at the Board of Health Office at 11 a.m. on Wednesday and Saturday.