Some parents against plan to consolidate Pittsburgh Public Schools

PITTSBURGH — Several parents, school staff and students made it clear that they are against the proposed plan to consolidate Pittsburgh Public Schools. They said closing schools is not the answer. Some families are even thinking about leaving the district because of this.

Several parents, students and school staff rallied to fight for the district’s future on Monday afternoon outside the PPS administration building.

Channel 11 told you earlier this month when administrators highlighted the need for change in the district, citing a number of things including enrollment and financial issues.

Community leaders said they want a say in this decision that impacts their kids’ education.

“We don’t think closing schools…and jamming kids on top of each other laying off staff is the way to go,” said Angel Gober, 412 Justice executive director.

While we don’t know which buildings would shut down, parents got a chance to weigh in sharing their concerns with the school board.

“We’ve cut and we’ve cut and if we keep cutting. We will be down to three teachers and one textbook and a bunch of schools that have been turned into condos,” said a PPS parent.

Many community members shared how this could hurt students.

“Their community is important to them they love going to school and then after school going to the playground and seeing their classmates that will be taken away from them,” said a PPS parent.

The district plans to hire a consulting firm to help finalize the plan, which they hope to present in the fall. The executive director for 412 Justice believes consolidation is only a short-term solution and is pushing for long-term options.

“How do we put more services into our buildings to attract more families to come to our schools those are some of the conversations we need to be having,” said Gober.

The plan itself won’t be voted on until at least December. The superintendent for Pittsburgh Public School said they are committed to refining this plan with the public’s input, ensuring every voice is heard.

Right now, there’s no list of school closures.

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