During a special virtual meeting Thursday morning, Mars Area School District board approved all fall sports programs to participate in the WPIAL and PIAA schedules.

But board members clarified while sports are continuing at this point, state officials have determined spectators aren't allowed to attend events.

“In the state of Pennsylvania, you're only allowed 250 people in an outdoor setting,” said Scott Heinauer, athletic director. “That's one thing that we would have to abide by.”

Heinauer said the people who are allowed to attend sporting events and activities must be “essential personnel” such as participants, coaches, statisticians, trainers and emergency workers.

Spectators, including parents, aren't considered essential by the state, even if there's room for them to attend.

Marching bands and cheerleaders are also allowed at football games, according to Heinauer. He said gym events can't have more than 25 people.

“That is something that we have a plan for,” Heinauer said. “It will be difficult.”

Superintendent Mark Gross said in some cases, some indoor sports teams will need to keep part of their team in the hallway to accommodate the capacity limit.

Heinauer said the capacity regulations are in place until the state decides to change them. He added he's aware of two bills in the state House and Senate that may allow two spectator tickets per student participant per event.

“That possibly may change things,” Heinauer said. “We're prepared if that particularly happens.”

Board members reiterated that preventing spectators from attending events isn't a district decision. Michael Hnath, district solicitor, clarified the governor made the suggestion and PIAA has mandated it at sporting events.

“I just want to be crystal clear,” said Christine Valenta, board member. “Mars Area School District is not doing anything different than the other school districts and the PIAA.”

Board member Sallie Wick explained the board is still hoping circumstances change before fall sports start.

In the meantime, the district is looking into ways to make events virtually accessible to the community. This could include purchasing specific cameras estimated at $30,000.

The details are being worked on.

“All sports teams and activities will need to follow the Mars School District Athletic and Activities Health and Safety Plan,” Heinauer said, “(which) we've been using all summer long.”

He asked the board to consider updating the plan to include more specific language, such as the length of time a positive student will be asked to sit out of events.

Dayle Ferguson, board member, said she'd also like the update to include a provision in the event the state allows spectators moving forward.

“So, we can let out families in as soon as possible,” Ferguson said.

Heinauer reminded the board that the challenges Mars Area faces with fall sports are being faced by districts across the state.

“It's a different year,” Valenta agreed.