The Jersey Shore Area School District Board of Directors meeting on December 3, 2024, was marked by intense community concern over the recent decision to close Salleysburg Elementary School. During the meeting, Superintendent updates revealed that the administrative team is actively working on an action plan to manage the transition of staff and resources from the school, but many community members expressed dissatisfaction with the process.

Rabier Lee, a resident from Piatt Township, passionately urged the board to rescind its vote to close the school, arguing that the decision was made without adequate planning or consideration of its impact on students and taxpayers. Lee highlighted a lack of detailed evaluations, including traffic studies and cafeteria capacity assessments, which are crucial for understanding the implications of such a significant change. She criticized the board for relying on the superintendent's recommendations without seeking comprehensive information, stating, "The board depends on its administrative team to do that planning... the superintendent failed in this task."

Catherine Hoppell, another concerned resident, echoed Lee's sentiments, questioning the absence of a concrete plan before the vote. She emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, urging the board to publicly address the many unanswered questions surrounding the closure.

Lauren Crouch, a local resident, added to the call for transparency, stating that effective leadership should model the values expected of students, including open communication and integrity. She pointed out that many questions from the community remain unanswered, indicating a disconnect between the board and the constituents it serves.

The meeting concluded without any formal action on the closure, leaving the community anxious about the future of Salleysburg Elementary and the potential ramifications of the board's decisions. As discussions continue, residents are hopeful for a more transparent process that considers their concerns and the well-being of students.