The Progress-Index PETERSBURG - The halls of Petersburg High and Vernon Johns Middle School are hosting students once again, after more than a year of virtual-only learning has kept them at home. Nearly 400 students have chosen to return to in-person instruction at both schools. Those that did not return will remain in Petersburg Virtual Academy for the remainder of the school year. About 30% of families across all grade levels voted to return to in-person learning. “Our teachers and staff have been eagerly awaiting this day,” said Dr. Maria Pitre-Martin, Superintendent of Petersburg City Public Schools. “This is a big step forward, and we want to make sure that the experience for our students who have opted to return to the building is as safe and rewarding as we can make it,” added Dr. Pitre-Martin.