During a recent meeting of the Gateway School District Board, several key resolutions and agreements were discussed, including the permanent closure of Gateway Middle School and the expansion of preschool services.
The board approved a resolution to permanently close Gateway Middle School, a decision that has been met with mixed reactions from the community. In conjunction with this closure, the district is set to lease three additional classrooms from the Allegheny Intermediate Unit for its Preschool Early Intervention Program, resulting in an increase in monthly payments from $826 to $3,098. This expansion aims to accommodate growing needs within the district.
Additionally, the board discussed an annual agreement with New Story Schools, which provides professional development services, and a revised agreement with Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) for three additional reading interns, bringing the total to 47.6 interns.
The meeting also highlighted community contributions, with a local resident, Cheryl Klonowski, donating 15 pairs of shoes, 10 sweatshirts, and socks to University Park Elementary, addressing essential needs for students.
In terms of communication, the board emphasized the importance of notifying the public about upcoming open houses and orientations for students transitioning to different grades. Plans are in place to utilize various channels, including local newspapers and community organizations, to ensure that parents are informed about these opportunities.
Overall, the meeting underscored the district's commitment to adapting its educational services and fostering community engagement amidst significant changes.