March 26th,2024-PITTSBURG, Ohio-The Pittsburgh Public Schools periodically considers closing Pittsburgh Woolslair K-5 in Bloomfield, sparking resistance from parents each time. Recently, the school district announced a “draft facilities plan” without details, prompting Woolslair parents to organize and protest. The plan aims to “transform the district’s facility footprint,” potentially meaning school closures. Despite lacking modern amenities like air conditioning and a playground, Woolslair’s community values its historic building and STEAM curriculum. Financial incentives also drive the push to close schools, with excess buildings incurring costs. A+ Schools’ study suggests the district can accommodate more students than it currently educates. While specific closures aren’t outlined yet, advocacy groups demand transparency from the school district. Previous closures have seen some buildings repurposed as charter schools, fueling concerns about privatization. Parents and activists vow to defend their neighborhood schools like Woolslair and Fulton K-5 against closure threats.
