What's Stackpole's Fate?

In just a few short months, the hallways and classrooms at will be empty, and void of staff and the young pupils which have filled the building every year since 1964.

But the question remains: What will happen to the brick building?

In the coming weeks, the school board will tackle that very question.

Discussed will be the possible sale of the school and, if the building is not sold, the possible demolition of the structure, according to Assistant Superintendent William Gretton. If no buyers are found, the school could be taken down in the next year.

With Stackpole expected to be shuttered - sale or no sale - in late August, district staff has already begun clearing out the classroom and other portions of the schools.

Many teachers have begun packing one box a week, Gretton said.

Over the summer months, crews will salvage usable desk, tables and chairs from Stackpole and moving them to the new Davis Elementary School, where Stackpole’s current students will be moving come September, according to Gretton. The reuse of furniture is expected to save the district, which is already , much-needed money.

Aside from the furniture and supplies moving from Stackpole to Daivs, the students moving onto Davis are taking part in activities that will allow them to meet their future Davis classmates, many of whom are attending McDonald Elementary School, Foight-Cressman said at the meeting, which can be viewed on the school district website.

During a recent hearing on the school closures, a parent asked what the district would be doing to prevent loitering and vandalism once the building is closed and no custodians will be occupying it during nights and weekends.

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Jennifer Foight-Cressman said she understood the parents concern and announced the district is “committed to keeping the area secure.” If nearby residents see suspicious activity the superintendent urged them to call police or contact the district.