Another option has been presented to a proposed construction and grade realignment in the Palmerton Area School District.

An audience of several dozen attended Tuesday’s town hall meeting in the high school auditorium to learn about options to enhance the high school’s security, as well as reconfigure administrative spaces to address overcrowding at S.S. Palmer Elementary School.

Superintendent Angela Friebolin went over the history of the district’s feasibility study.

Friebolin shared staff survey results in which she said there were 113 responses (43% of staff), which consisted mainly of teachers. Of those, she said 62% felt realignment would benefit the district.

Michael Kelly, of KCBA Architects, discussed alternative solutions to the feasibility study option; provide additional classrooms on campus (create room for sixth grade); relocate high school main entrance; enhance security (school visitors, gym/auditorium visitors); and consider district office addition at high school.

Challenges are that the existing high school admin is away from front entry; the location of front entry not clear from exterior; visitor parking should be located near front; and maintain event entrance at gym/auditorium lobby with security options.

Ryan Kish, business manager, outlined financial considerations, and said the district would have to borrow money from a bond.

The district had previously contracted with RLPS Architects for an $18,000 feasibility study which outlined an option to have all K-3 students eventually attend Towamensing Elementary and all fourth through sixth grade students attend S.S. Palmer.

Public comment

After the presentation, the town hall was opened to the public.

John Kovacs of Palmerton was complimentary in his remarks.

“Thank you to the board for listening to the first public town hall, and listening to different options,” Kovacs said.

Another resident asked if the district was still proposing realignment along with the sixth grade and administrative move.

Friebolin essentially said it could decide to do nothing, do just sixth grade, or do just realignment.

Resident Ellen Colangelo of Palmerton asked what the catalyst was to realign the entry to the school.

Friebolin explained that the catalyst for this whole project was that a study of facilities, enrollment, and current uses haven’t been done in a long time.

Colangelo questioned if adding 10,000 square feet was really necessary.

“That’s a lot of square footage; that’s a lot of money,” Colangelo said. “If it ain’t broke, you don’t need to fix it.”

Another resident said she appreciated that what was said at the last few meetings was being considered, and that the additional options were being presented.

Director MaryJo King thanked everyone who attended the town hall and noted that as a parent, she’s very passionate about students.

“We really do love hearing from you all,” said King, who encouraged residents to continue to be heard.

Director Sherry Haas said she too, was glad to see people invested in the district.

“I really appreciate that you are here and that the board is willing to listen to you,” Haas said. “We need to make sure we do it right the first time.”