Shaler, September 19, 2025
News Summary
The Shaler Area School District has announced a community forum to discuss its ‘Building for Tomorrow’ plan, which proposes closing Shaler Area Elementary School and realigning grade levels. The plan includes moving fourth and fifth graders to existing primary schools and relocating sixth graders to the middle school to enhance stability and community identity. Residents can participate in the forum to voice concerns and seek clarity on the upcoming changes.
Shaler
The Shaler Area School District has announced a community forum to discuss its proposed plan titled “Building for Tomorrow”, which includes the closure of Shaler Area Elementary School. The forum is scheduled for Monday, September 29, at 6 p.m. in the auditorium at Shaler Area High School.
Key Aspects of the Plan
The proposed plan involves the closure of the Shaler Area Elementary School, located on Scott Avenue in Shaler. The district intends to sell the property for redevelopment purposes. The school currently serves fourth through sixth-grade students. According to the proposal:
- Fourth and fifth grades will transition to four existing primary schools: Burchfield, Marzolf, Reserve, and Scott that cater to kindergarten through third-grade students.
- Sixth grade will be relocated to Shaler Area Middle School, which currently serves seventh and eighth graders.
The goal of these changes is to allow students to remain in the same school from kindergarten through fifth grade, thereby reducing transitions and promoting better learning and social development. Additionally, the alignment aims to preserve the neighborhood identity of the four primary schools, reinforcing community ties.
Community Concerns
Discussions around the closure of Shaler Area Elementary and the Reserve Primary School have raised concerns among some residents, particularly regarding the Reserve location. However, the district has committed to keeping Burchfield, Marzolf, Reserve, and Scott Primary Schools operational as K-5 neighborhood elementary schools.
For the upcoming academic year, no students will be moving to the elementary school for the 2026-27 school year, meaning rising fourth graders will remain at their respective neighborhood schools. Starting in June 2027, rising sixth and seventh graders will transition directly to the middle school for their education.
Phased Implementation Approach
The district plans a phased approach to ensure smooth transitions for students and families. This strategy aims to provide stability while allowing the district adequate time to prepare for instructional programming and staffing. In addition, a decision on the future of the swimming pool at the elementary school will need to be made within the next two years, along with assessment of the pool’s cost and benefits, potential alternatives for a district pool, and rental options for student-athletes. The pool is expected to remain in operation through the end of 2027.
Participating in the Forum
For questions about the proposed changes, residents can contact the school district at 412-429-1200, ext. 2801. If unable to attend the community forum, a recording will be made available on the district’s website for those interested in the discussions regarding the school closure and the grade realignments.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the community forum?
The forum is intended to present the “Building for Tomorrow” plan, which includes the closure of Shaler Area Elementary School and the realignment of grades within the district.
When and where will the forum take place?
The forum will be held on Monday, September 29, at 6 p.m. in the auditorium at Shaler Area High School.
What changes are proposed regarding grade levels?
Fourth and fifth-grade students will move to Burchfield, Marzolf, Reserve, and Scott Primary Schools, while sixth-grade students will be relocated to Shaler Area Middle School.
What steps are being taken to ensure a smooth transition?
The district has outlined a phased approach for implementation to provide stability for families and to prepare effectively for staffing and programming needs.
What will happen to the swimming pool at the elementary school?
The swimming pool will remain open until the end of 2027, but a decision regarding its future will need to be made in the coming years.
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Key Features of the Proposed Plan
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Closure of Shaler Area Elementary School | Proposed closure for redevelopment |
| Grade Realignment | Fourth and fifth grades to primary schools; sixth grade to middle school |
| Maintaining Neighborhood Identity | Keeping primary schools as K-5 neighborhood schools |
| Swimming Pool Status | Remain open until the end of 2027; decision needed thereafter |
| Contact for Questions | 412-429-1200, ext. 2801 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- TribLive: Shaler Area Plan Calls for Closing Elementary School
- Wikipedia: Shaler Area School District
- TribLive: Board Hopefuls Vying for Seats in Shaler Area School District
- Google Search: Shaler Area School District
- TribLive Community: Monroeville Times Express
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Pennsylvania
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