Parents and teachers warn of harm to students if school closes
Closing Charles Kelly Elementary School could save the Upper Darby School District nearly half a million dollars a year, according to school district officials.
Yet the cost would be too high, say parents who spoke at the most recent Upper Darby School Board meeting.
The school is in the former St. Charles Borromeo Catholic School building at 3400 Dennison Ave. and serves 285 students. It was opened in 2007 to relieve district overcrowding.
Edward Marshaleck, assistant superintendent of student services, said there were a few reasons to close the school, including that the district does not own the building, which limits the district’s ability to improve the space, and the lease is expiring at the end of this school year. He said the efficiencies gained from consolidating with nearby schools would save the district $460,000.
Students would go to Highland Park and Stonehurst Elementary Schools instead, with fifth graders going on to middle school.
The shift would mean one less bus run, but more crossing guards.
Linda Fox, president of the Upper Darby Education Association, said the union hasn’t taken a stance on the closing but wants to make sure all teachers have a position with the district.
“Our interest is with the welfare of union members, ensuring that every teacher has a position and every concern is given voice.”
She did urge that if the building is closed, students, faculty and staff all be moved to the same new location to maintain continuity of relationships.
Maryjane D’Urso of Clifton Heights, who works at the school, said the closure plan is poorly considered and will have a negative impact on students.
“This plan is rushed and has many gaps. The most vulnerable students in Upper Darby need advocates for the best decisions to be made on their behalf. Smaller class size and dedicated staff are just a few of the hidden gems at Charles Kelly.”
Parent Fefe Gwyan of Lansdowne expressed similar concerns.
“Moving students to other environments will not improve learning. … The most vulnerable students will be moved to larger class sizes with no support."
The district will continue to take public input in the next three months before a decision is made at the end of April.
