Robot ‘double’ allows sick US students to attend school, see friends

Jilly DeStephano talks with her friends via a robot from home during social studies class on Friday, February 23, 2018 at Octorara Intermediate School in Atglen, Pa. She's a middle schooler who uses a robot in school because of a chronic illness. (Sydney Schaefer/Philadelphia Inquirer/TNS)

ATGLEN, Philadelphia: During her sixth-grade social-studies class at Octorara Intermediate School in Atglen, Chester County, Jilly DeStephano acted like any 12-year-old – lost in chatter with her good friends Melanie and Katie. 

"Jilly, I like your hair," said Melanie, admiring her neat brunette pigtails, which Jilly flicked in response. Suddenly, their teacher Melissa Fanelli showed up.