03-31-2026 - HBGSD - Public Hearing

The Harrisburg City School District Board of School Directors held a public hearing on March 31, 2026, to discuss the proposed closure of Marshall Academy and Roland Academy as part of a broader district reconfiguration plan approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Education in 2024. The hearing focused on compliance with the public school code regarding school closures, clarifying that Marshall Math Science Academy would remain open while Marshall Academy was placed on inactive status. Roland Academy is scheduled for permanent closure at the end of the 2026-2027 school year following a phased student redistricting. Financial considerations were discussed, highlighting significant capital savings by closing Roland Academy, which required costly renovations. Public comments expressed concerns about class sizes, student behavior, and equitable educational opportunities, urging better communication and resource allocation, including hiring classroom aides. The board acknowledged these concerns and indicated ongoing collaboration with the community and city council to address them.