Parents report waiting hours during Pittsburgh Public Schools laptop distribution

PITTSBURGH — Parents told Channel 11 they had to stand in line for hours in the summer heat to pick up their child’s laptop for the upcoming Pittsburgh Public Schools virtual classes. At one point, the line wrapped around the Westinghouse High School and up the block.

“It’s pretty miserable. It’s really hot and they’re making a lot of people wait out here,” said Stephanie Pawlowski.

With the first day of classes right around the corner, all students will be supplied with their own laptop. But parents said there weren’t enough volunteers to pass out the computers.

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“I would assume if you anticipate that many parents or family members you would at least send out a letter saying if anyone can volunteer, help,” said Lawrence Harris.

He waited in line for hours and witnessed a woman pass out.

“She collapsed and we tried to prevent her from hurting herself,” he said.

A district spokesperson sent a statement to Channel 11:

“As we get closer to the start of the school year, families can anticipate longer wait times at our distribution sites. While we wish more families took advantage of the staggered starts, we will continue to recruit staff volunteers to work each location.”

There is another laptop distribution scheduled for Tuesday. A third volunteer eventually showed up to help.

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