In the midst of students' first week back in a brick-and-mortar setting following weeks of precautionary online learning, Mars Area officials said things are going well.

Representing the Mars Area Education Association Tuesday at the school board meeting, high school teacher Peter Black said teachers are excited to see students in person.

“There's a connection, yes, over the screen,” Black said. “But it's not the same thing.”

Referring to online learning conducted last spring when the pandemic first hit the region, Black said the district has taken positive strides.

But Black said he's still concerned about the district moving forward. Teachers have now been without a new contract for more than 190 days.

Although negotiations are taking place, Black said faculty are concerned they won't be able to keep up with pandemic demands.

“We're feeling the impacts,” Black said. “We have to invest in that future.”

A contract negotiation session is planned for this week.

Mark Gross, superintendent, praised the teachers for supporting an in-person return to school.

“The positivity has definitely been there,” Gross said.

Gross noted that staffing numbers have been difficult to manage due to quarantine. Teachers who are able to teach from home while isolating are allowed to do so.

Gross said the district will be open as long as it is possible to not compromise student and staff safety.