PPS BOARD PRESIDENT GENE WALKER
The New Pittsburgh Courier has learned that Pittsburgh Public Schools has decided to push back the district’s consultant’s final recommendation on whether more than a dozen schools should be closed to Oct. 15, instead of Sept. 16.
“In our discussions with the PPS Administration and our consultants at ERS (Education Resource Strategies), we determined that more time is needed to analyze all of the data collected during the most recent community engagement sessions,” said Board President Gene Walker, in a statement. “Due to the expected scope of the proposal and its significant impact on our District, we want to ensure that ERS has ample time to develop and present the best possible recommendation. The Board is committed to ensuring that all community input is considered before the final presentation and this commitment requires that we give ERS the additional time needed to finish their work.”
Pittsburgh Public Schools (PPS) continues to be steadfast in its commitment to community engagement as it finalizes the Facilities Utilization Plan. Hundreds of parents, students, and community members have attended Regional Community Input Sessions, submitted input via the Let’s Talk platform, or completed a survey regarding the base scenario presented by ERS last month.
“We are deeply grateful to everyone in our community who has elevated their voices to share their aspirations for the children of Pittsburgh,” said Superintendent Dr. Wayne N. Walters, in a statement. “ERS has much to consider in developing a final recommendation that honors this input while ensuring we create a system of equity, excellence, and efficiency across all schools.”
The major issue for school district parents is that PPS schools would no longer be grades K-8 or 6-12. Schools would be K-5 or 6-8. Also on the table is that a number of magnet schools would be phased out.
PPS is home to roughly 20,000 students, and the number has been declining over the years.