Tag Archives: Harrisburg School District

The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

October 25, 2024 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas Judge William Tully swore in the Harrisburg School District’s new superintendent Dr. Benjamin Henry, who was joined by his family.

What a great sunny, fall week here in Harrisburg. Take this weekend to stroll around the city, shop local, enjoy river views and, of course, catch up on your Burg reading. You can start with all of our recent reporting, below.

Allen Theatre in Annville, which has decades of history, is now under new ownership, our magazine story reported. The theater and its new accompanying Salamander Bookstore offer movies, live music and magic shows.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region announced that it will expand its service area to include its York and Adams county affiliate, our online story reported. The organization will also rebrand at Big Brothers Big Sisters of South-Central PA.

The Broad Street Market announced that two new vegan vendors would join its stone building, our online story reported. Harrisburg-based Honey Bear Ice Cream and Ve’Lightfully Vegan will open in the market in the coming weeks.

Capital Blue Cross warns the community that measles and whooping cough cases are rising nationwide. Click here, to find out more about the viruses.

Dennise Hill recently became the executive director of Brethren Housing Association, which provides housing to single mothers and children, our magazine story reported. Hill left her city government director position to follow her passion and return to the nonprofit world.

Harrisburg School District swore in its new superintendent, Dr. Benjamin Henry, at a board meeting this week, our online story reported. Also that evening, the district approved the resignation of the John Harris High School principal.

Mayor Wanda Williams announced Samuel Sulkosky as her new business administrator, filling a position that sat vacant for several months, our online story reported. Sulkosky served in borough and city manager positions over the last several years, most recently as the interim borough manager of Punxsutawney.

Pennsylvania Lt. Gov. Austin Davis held a press conference at the LGBT Center of Central PA to announce the recipients of a state safety grant, our online story reported. The LGBT Center, as well as community organizations and places of worship, were awarded money for safety improvements in light of a rise in hate crimes nationally.

Pittsburgh is the perfect place for a fall trip, offering delicious cuisine, museums and a conservatory, among other features. Click here, for recommendations.

Sara Bozich has the hookup for fun fall events this weekend. Click here for the list.

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Harrisburg District swears in new superintendent; high school principal resigns

October 22, 2024 | by Maddie Gittens

Judge William Tully swore in Dr. Benjamin Henry as superintendent, who was joined by his wife and daughters.

The Harrisburg School District has officially sworn in its new superintendent.

At a school board meeting on Tuesday, Dauphin County Court of Common Pleas Judge William Tully administered the oath of office to Dr. Benjamin Henry, the new superintendent, who said he “can’t wait to get to work.”

Henry was approved as superintendent by receiver Dr. Lori Suski in August and will officially begin in his role on Nov. 1.

“One of the things that drew me to this school district is, when you look at all the potential of this place, when you really look at the data and where we’re moving as a district, it’s amazing,” he said. “I’m ready to get to work on Nov. 1, getting to the schools, meeting parents, meeting some of our students.”

Henry fills the position previously held by Dr. Eric Turman, who resigned in May and by Dr. Marcia Stokes, who has assumed the position in an interim role.

Henry is slated to serve for a four-year term with a salary of $199,500.

According to the district, Henry has over two decades of experience in public schools. Most recently, he served as the regional assistant superintendent of Polk County schools in Florida. He has also previously held jobs as a special education teacher, a middle school math teacher and a principal.

Once Henry officially starts, his 100-day plan for the district will be posted publicly.

“This community is asking for something different, and I feel like I’m the leader that could really move the school district in the right direction, but I’m going to need everyone’s help,” he said.

Also on Tuesday, Suski approved the resignation of Harrisburg High School-John Harris Campus Principal Laquan Magruder, effective Dec. 31. Magruder was hired in August 2023.

At the meeting, several district teachers spoke out in concern over the high turnover rates of principals at the high school.

“Students at our campus crave stability and consistency, yet, these two things, which are true at the majority of the high schools in our area, including our own Sci-Tech campus, are hard to achieve at John Harris due to the constant change of head principals,” said one teacher.

The teacher said that she believed there had been 13 principals in the position since 2009.

“We hear what you are saying,” Suski said, addressing the teachers at the meeting. “It is our goal, my goal as the receiver, the goal of this board […] and the voices of all of you, that we are going to find the best possible leader to lead John Harris.”

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The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

October 4, 2024 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

Harrisburg School District officials, students and community members cut the ribbon on Steele Elementary School.

What do we think? Will the sun make an appearance this weekend? Despite the gray, dreary days, we’ve been here to cover the news and have rounded up all of our stories for you, below. Fingers crossed there’s no more rain.

Adventures for families abound in fall, with opportunities to enjoy literature, nature and tasty treats. Find our columnist’s local suggestions, here.

Dwennimmen African Dance Community celebrates dance and culture, our magazine story reported. Lark Daniel, founder of the Harrisburg-based group, is passionate about using the art form to keep African history and culture alive, while building community.

Halloween is right around the corner and Harrisburg has shared the date of its trick-or-treat night, our online story reported. The city has several other spooky events taking place, including movie nights and a costume contest.

The Harrisburg Regional Chamber & CREDC announced its 2024 Catalyst Award winners this week, our online story reported. Find out who was honored, here.

Harrisburg School District officials and students cut the ribbon on the renovated and reopened Steele Elementary School, our online story reported. The school was previously shuttered since 2011, but recently revitalized using federal COVID relief funds.

Mount Everest Nepali and Indian Cuisine plans to open in November in Strawberry Square in Harrisburg, our online story reported. This will be the owners’ second restaurant location.

Musical Notes lists the hot-ticket shows headed to Harrisburg this month. Our columnist has recommendations for indie, heavy metal and rock fans.

N. 2^nd Street in Harrisburg marks two years since its transition from an urban highway to a neighborhood street. In his column, our publisher argues that the city needs to continue making its roads safer for residents.

October’s Community Corner features special Halloween and autumn events taking place in the Harrisburg area. In our Happenings section, find a complete list of fall festivities.

Open Stage is performing “Ride the Cyclone,” a dark comedy, this fall, our magazine story reported. The show dates back to 2008, but has recently been trending with younger audiences on social media.

Sara Bozich has your weekend plans all scheduled. Find entertainment, dining and wellness events, here.

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Harrisburg School District cuts the ribbon on reopened Steele Elementary School

October 1, 2024 | by Maddie Gittens

Harrisburg School District officials, students and community members cut the ribbon on the reopened Steele Elementary School.

The Harrisburg School District celebrated its newly renovated and reopened “state-of-the-art” school on Tuesday.

At a ceremony, the district cut the ribbon on Steele Elementary School on the 2500-block of N. 5^th St., which opened to students this fall.

“Today, we are gathered together to celebrate revitalization, not only the revitalization of the school building itself, but also revitalization of the educational opportunity and pride of this community,” said Dr. Marcia Stokes, acting superintendent.

Steele Elementary School

The school was originally built in the 1930s and closed in 2011, remaining vacant until the district decided, two years ago, to renovate and reopen the building. At the time, officials said that reopening the building would help solve a capacity issue at the elementary school level, as the schools got fuller after fifth graders were moved from the middle schools to elementary schools. Officials were also interested in having a neighborhood school in the Uptown area.

The project began in May 2023.

The district used Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund (ESSER), federal COVID relief funds to support the $21.6 million renovation and expansion project.

Steele Elementary media center

The new building houses kindergarten through fifth grade and includes modern instructional classrooms, as well as art, music and special education classrooms. There is also a new kitchen and cafeteria, media center and playgrounds.

At the start of construction, the building was largely gutted, new windows and doors were installed and an addition was constructed on the back of the building to house the cafeteria and classrooms.

Crabtree, Rohrbaugh & Associates was the architect for the renovation, and Fidevia Construction Management & Consulting served as the contractor.

Cafeteria

“They were absolutely starstruck,” said Steele Principal Frances Echevarria of the students on the first day of school. “My vision was always to have a school that was conducive to learning, and this fulfills my dream.”

Echevarria said that everything from the bright blue, green and orange wall colors to the furniture choices of comfortable stools and chairs helps students focus better and take pride in their environment.

“When they walk in here, this really feels like their home,” she said.

For more information, visit the Harrisburg School District’s website.

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The Week that Was: News and Features around Harrisburg

September 27, 2024 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

Midwest Food Bank PA and local officials kicked off a new wellness program at the state Capitol.

You know it’s officially fall when our October issue of the magazine drops! Inside, we have tons of fun autumn activities and stories, so grab a copy and get to reading. First, get up to speed on this week’s news, below.

Anna Rose Bakery & Coffee Shop in downtown Harrisburg is under new ownership, our online story reported. Former employee and baker Riley Madar has taken the reins and plans updates.

Arts on the Square, hosted by Market Square Presbyterian Church, features international, national and local musical performers and visual artists throughout the year. In our magazine story, find out what’s to come for the season.

Bethesda Mission announced that its executive director, Scott Dunwoody, would retire at the end of January, our online story reported. Dunwoody served with Bethesda for 18 years, including eight years as director.

Harrisburg School District receiver Dr. Lori Suski approved the purchase of locked cell phone cases for high school students, at a board meeting, our online story reported. District officials shared that the phone ban has been implemented to help remove distractions from learning.

Harrisburg was awarded a $2 million federal grant for planting and maintaining city trees, our online story reported. The city will also use funds to offer environmental education to youth and adult residents.

Health equity is an important part of Capital Blue Cross’s work, which has included providing resources and services to lower-income patients. Read more in this sponsored post.

Market Square Concerts is kicking off its 2024-25 season with new experiences for audiences, our online story reported. The next show on the schedule will feature Philadelphia-based Tempesta di Mare on Nov. 9 at St. Michael Lutheran Church.

Midwest Food Bank PA kicked off its Giving Wellness initiative at a press conference in the state Capitol, our online story reported. The program offers businesses and community groups fitness and health resources in exchange for support for the organization.

Our publisher introduces the October issue of the magazine, here, and reflects on the many tourists that visit our area, especially in the fall.

Sara Bozich has fall happenings galore to fill your weekend with, here.

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Support quality local journalism. Join Friends of TheBurg today!

October News Digest

September 27, 2024 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

Forster Street Project Begins

Construction to calm traffic along a major Harrisburg roadway began last month.

The city started its Capitol Gateway project along Forster Street from N. Front to N. 2nd streets, which includes installing traffic-calming features and signal updates.

The $1.7 million project first surfaced in 2020, when City Council approved the submission of a grant application for federal transportation funds. The city received the grant later that year through the Harrisburg Area Transportation Study (HATS).

According to officials, around the time when the project first was discussed, the area was the most crash-prone in the city. Traffic calming features will include adding curb bump-outs and enlarging the median to give pedestrians space to stand if they are unable to cross the street in time. There will also be traffic signal updates at Forster and N. 2nd streets.

The right turning, or “slip lane,” from Forster to N. Front Street will be eliminated.

JVI Group, the project contractor, will work through the end of October to make sidewalk and curb improvements then break for the winter. They will return in the spring to finish work, including street milling and paving.

“We are excited to finally begin work on the Capitol Gateway project,” said city Engineer Joel Seiders. “Between traffic coming into the city from the West Shore, leaving the city from the Capitol Complex, or using beautiful Riverfront Park, this section of Harrisburg is one of the most heavily traveled every day. Once this project is complete, it will be safer than ever before to walk, bike and drive in this area.”

Forster Street will remain open to through-traffic during construction but will be reduced by one lane in each direction. Pedestrian traffic will be detoured.

Apartment Project Gets Approval

A dormant downtown Harrisburg apartment project is springing back to life, as the developer has had the project re-approved.

Last month, the city Planning Commission, for a second time, approved a land development plan for the Veterans Building, located at 112 Market St.

Harristown Development Corp. is proposing converting the 125-year-old, eight-story, vacant office building into a 48-unit residential building.

In 2021, the commission approved the conversion of the 51,000-square-foot building to 35 one- and two-bedroom apartments, plus first-floor retail space. However, following the approval, construction costs rose quickly, so the project never began, according to Brad Jones, president and CEO of Harristown.

“One of the reasons we haven’t gotten this project finished yet, when we first started, pricing kind of went haywire—interest rates and construction prices kind of went haywire,” Jones said, at the meeting.

Harristown has now redesigned the $8 million project with 48 one- and two-bedroom apartments, ranging from about 600 to 1,000 square feet. The new plan excluded first-floor retail space, proposing to absorb that space into the residential component.

Last month, the commission unanimously reapproved the plan, but on the condition that Harristown retain some retail space on the first floor.

“I can easily see an opportunity for a coffee shop or a small something that activates that corner,” said commissioner Vern McKissick.

Harristown, Jones said, is amenable to retaining some first-floor retail. The company doesn’t yet have a timeline for the project, which also must be re-approved by City Council.

Schools Superintendent Hired

The Harrisburg School District has selected a new top official.

Dr. Benjamin Henry will soon step up as the new superintendent of schools, following a summer-long search, the district has announced.

Henry fills the post left vacant by previous superintendent Eric Turman, who resigned and took a job as the superintendent of the Central Dauphin School District. Following Turman’s resignation, receiver Dr. Lori Suski appointed Dr. Marcia Stokes, the district’s chief financial officer, as acting superintendent.

Henry’s four-year term begins on Nov. 1, with Stokes continuing in the role in the meantime. The district has set Henry’s salary at $199,500.

Henry brings over two decades of experience in public education, according to the district. He served as the regional assistant superintendent of Polk County Schools in Florida for the past four years, overseeing 29 schools. Before that, he held jobs as a special education teacher, a middle school math teacher and a principal. Henry was also appointed by the governor to serve on the state’s Education Ethics Committee.

Park Pavilion Proposed

Harrisburg may get a new entertainment pavilion in one of its main parks.

The city has submitted a grant application to the state for funds to construct a pavilion in Riverfront Park for use during city festivals and events.

City Council unanimously approved the ratification of a grant application submission to the Pa. Department of Community and Economic Development for $117,228 for the structure.

The proposed multipurpose pavilion would be built in the park near the Civic Club of Harrisburg’s building near North Street. According to city Grants Director Rebecca Vollmer, the concrete bandshell would be similar to the pavilion in Italian Lake Park.

The stage would be used for city events such as Kipona, Artsfest and July Fourth and could be rented out to the Civic Club and other organizations to bring revenue to the city, Vollmer said.

Vollmer said that the city currently pays around $17,000 to $21,000 for stages for festival entertainment each year.

If the grant is awarded, the city would be required to match 15% of the total project cost, about $18,000. Vollmer expects that the city, within a year, would make back that money by not having to rent a stage.

Area Home Sales, Prices Rise

Harrisburg-area home sales and prices both increased in August, per the latest report on previously owned houses.

For the three-county region, 651 homes sold versus 604 in August 2023, as the median sales price climbed to $297,000 from $284,298, according to the Greater Harrisburg Association of Realtors (GHAR).

In Dauphin County, sales totaled 309 homes in August, an increase of 10 houses, as the median sales price grew to $270,000 from $255,000 in the year-ago period, GHAR stated.

Cumberland County had 300 home sales, up from 279 the prior August, as the median sales price rose to $327,250 from $308,000, GHAR said.

In Perry County, 47 homes sold compared to 25 last August, as the median sales price shot up to $300,000 from $242,000, according to GHAR.

The pace of sales slowed a bit, as the “average days on market” totaled 23 days, versus 19 days a year ago, GHAR said.

So Noted

Andrew Bomberger last month was named the new executive director of the Tri-County Regional Planning Commission (TCRPC), which provides land use and transportation planning for Dauphin, Cumberland and Perry counties. Bomberger has served with TCRPC for 10 years and succeeds Steve Deck, who retired in August.

Broad Street Market has received a $350,000 grant from the Pa. Department of Community and Economic Development to make upgrades to the stone building and offset operational costs. Projects include repairing the roof, which frequently leaks, and possible HVAC upgrades to the building, according to market officials.

Jazzy’s Good Eats opened last month at 912 N. 3rd St. in Harrisburg, relocating from space in Kline Village. From the snug storefront, owner Jasmine “Jazzy” White serves fried fish, fried chicken, turkey wings, mac and cheese and greens, among other southern-style staples, for takeout-only.

Matt Maisel, Harrisburg’s communications director, resigned last month to take a position with Penn State Health. In recent months, the city has lost several other top officials, including former Business Administrator Dan Hartman, former Finance Director Marita Kelley and former Building and Housing Director Dennise Hill.

Men in the Kitchen, a York-based restaurant, plans to expand into Harrisburg, opening in the former Firehouse restaurant at 606 N. 2nd St. Co-owners Justin Coleman and Kyle Moore expect to open in November, serving Cajun cuisine, seafood and other signature dishes from inside the circa-1871 Hope Fire Station building.

Murphy & Dittenhafer Architects last month was selected to serve as the architect/engineering firm for the rebuilding of the Broad Street Market’s brick building. City Council unanimously confirmed the selection of the York-based company in a contract valued at $1.3 million. The historic building burned and closed in a July 2023 fire, and the reconstruction is expected to take at least two years.

Changing Hands

Allison St., 1506: Treasurehunt Home Investments LLC & New Harvest Solutions LLC to N. Portoreal & T. Amparo, $148,000

Apricot St., 1711: J. Shook & C. Walter to ADR Equities LLC, $57,000

Bailey St., 1224: S. Chase to A. Scott, $53,000

Bailey St., 1242: Real Estate Investment Associates of PA LLC to 1242 Bailey LLC, $59,000

Berryhill St., 1329: N. Sandoval & Amado Investment LLC to Mau Properties LLC, $105,000

Berryhill St., 2242: A. Giambanco & A. Lebron to C. Johnson, $115,000

Boas St., 1616: Secretary of Housing & Urban Development to E. Ramirez, $85,000

Brookwood St., 1938: S. Cobb & R. Gantt to 2020 Real Estate Ventures LLC, $57,000

Chestnut St., 1928: TPH Asset Management LLC to Mau Properties LLC, $80,000

Chestnut St., 2200: G. Forsyth to D. Fuller & K. Pinet, $259,000

Chestnut St., 2406: K. Quimby to Z. & R. Madar, $310,000

Christian St., 1230: C. Disla to R. Adon, $110,000

Crescent St., 425: Real Estate Investment Associates of PA LLC to TMH Family Trust, $59,000

Croyden Rd., 2926: A. Guerrero to B. Gidey, $150,000

Derry St., 2014: Two Three Two Investments LLC to S. Laroc, $134,000

Division St., 503: M. Grossman to H. Moyer, $159,900

Division St., 515: BCR 2 Properties LLC to V. Peralta, $165,000

Green St., 1412: Capozzi & Ehring Realty LLC to 1412 Green LLC, $225,000

Green St., 1732: A. Christian to J. Holderman, $225,000

Green St., 1943: D. & K. Wadlington to M. Smith, $272,500

Hoffman St., 3232: M&T Bank to P. Morocho, $84,000

Holly St., 1846: Adonis Real Estate LLC to A. Fernandez, $152,000

Hudson St., 1140: A. Ciucci to D. Hockenberry, $192,000

Hummel St., 342 and 1508 Hunter St.: E&K Homes LLC to M. Gabrielle, $178,332

Hunter St., 1607: S. Scott to O. Perez, $140,000

Kensington St., 2263: KDR Investments LLP to 248 S. Quince St. LLC, $92,000

Kensington St., 2430: REO 2021 NR4 LLC to 248 S Quince St LLC, $95,725

Kittatinny St., 1215: S&P Property Holdings LLC to 1215 Kitt Harrisburg LLC, $650,000

Lexington St., 2560: HBG Rents LLC to A. Hariri & Y. Alrosan, $145,000

Liberty St., 1412: J. Espaillat to Mau Properties LLC, $90,000

Maclay St., 243: BLTN Properties LLC to Numbee Realty LLC, $197,500

Manada St., 2029: M. Loja to G. Tavera, $130,000

Market St., 1736: D. Seldon to A. Peralta, $70,726

Market St., 1826: J. & R. Mallory to A. Linan, $80,000

Market St., 2024: S. Gonzalez to M. Curry Nixon, $187,000

Melrose St., 706: J. Grant to EA Capital LLC, $115,000

Mulberry St., 1907: G. & G. Kennedy to V. Rijo, $65,000

Muench St., 633: G. & O. Daley to 248 S. Quince St. LLC, $108,000

North St., 1907: M. & B. King to BS JR Realty LLC, $115,000

N. 2nd St., 925: B. Pupo to A. Dufton & P. Margrave, $270,000

N. 2nd St., 3118: D. Inghilterra to B. & J. Orsinger, $436,000

N. 3rd St., 222, 230; 229 Court St.; and 228, 230 Cranberry St.: Musalair Trust to Cranberry WP LLC, $1,800,000

N. 3rd St., 2126: D&L Development Group Inc. to PACC HBG 2 LLC, $177,000

N. 3rd St., 2244: G. Gonzales to R. & T. Bbalo, $169,000

N. 4th St., 2433: Good Connect LLC to R. Sanchez, $82,500

N. 5th St., 2501: J. Castro to Y. & D. Disla, $170,000

N. 5th St., 2733: C. Carey to Integrity First Home Buyers LLC, $86,000

N. 5th St., 3138: L. Confer to W. Renn, $189,900

N. 6th St., 2227: Peace Casa LLC to S. Laroc, $110,000

N. 6th St., 2601: J. Kates to DTJ Associates LLC, $50,000

N. 6th St., 3144: C. Koser to A. Pellegrini, $118,000

N. 6th St., 3157: R. Wickham to N. & J. Cline, $150,000

N. 6th St., 3601 (rear): C. & F. Acri to CF Acri & Son Inc., $630,000

N. 15th St., 227: First Choice Home Buyers LLC to Narrow Gate Investments LLC, $99,000

N. 15th St., 1337: C. & B. Grier to 1337 North 15th LLC, $50,000

N. 15th St., 1511: Ink Properties LLC to J. Folks, $90,000

N. Front St., 315: J. Boswell & J. Piccola to Front Street Lofts LLC, $633,000

Peffer St., 435: J. & D. Cummings to E. & I. Applyrs, $170,000

Penn St., 1200: K. Barder to J. & J. Blair, $205,000

Penn St., 1830: J. Lucas to L. Wood & T. Miller, $189,900

Race St., 550: A. Thompson & R. Farquhar to R. Thompson, $173,000

Race St., 612: D. Amaguayo to M. Burtner, $250,000

Randolph St., 1616: KDR Investments LLP to L. Chavez & M. Gonzalez, $70,000

Reel St., 2400: Franklin Real Estate USA Inc. to G. Munoz, $170,000

Regina St., 1825: F. & E. Metellus to J. Francois, $103,000

Ross St., 626: Casareal Developments LLC to E. Ramirez, $65,000

Rudy Rd., 2446: Capital Realty Guild LLC to EA Capital LLC, $100,000

Penn St., 2138: Oasis Property Investment LLC to N. Scott, $200,000

Seneca St., 253: L. Diehl to G&W Rentals LLC, $105,000

Seneca St., 638: A. Hurt to Noraziza LLC, $83,000

S. 12th St., 1519: 1&H LLC to N. de Cruz, $145,000

S. 15th St., 433 & 437: J. & C. Snook to Aharon Steinberg LLC, $114,000

S. 15th St., 435: J. & C. Snook to 435 S 15th LLC, $57,000

S. 15th St., 540: E&R Realty Legacy LLC to M. & S. Mejia, $122,000

S. 16th St., 439: J. Snook & C. Walter to 51 Hidden Glen LLC, $57,000

S. 19th St., 1338: B. Skaggs to B. Camacho, $159,900

S. 29th St., 512: 512 S 29th St LLC to 512 Singh LLC, $600,000

State St., 231, Unit 804: C. Houck to H. Martinson, $195,000

Swatara St., 1917: Two Three Two Investments LLC to A Ventura Construction LLC, $82,500

Swatara St., 2408: J. Suszko to JTA Consulting Group LLC, $140,000

Verbeke St., 1613: A. Powell to R. Sanchez, $82,500

Vernon St., 1421: C. Valencik to Mau Properties LLC, $129,000

Walnut St., 1724: A. Bouhach to F. Valenzuela, $103,000

Wiconisco St., 409: Central PA Buyers LLC to R. Rivera, $161,000

Zarker St., 1415: TPH Asset Management LLC to J. Vanderhorst, $81,000

Harrisburg property sales, greater than $50,000, August 2024. Source: Dauphin County. Data is assumed to be accurate.

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Harrisburg School District to soon introduce locked phone pouches to high school students to reduce distraction

September 24, 2024 | by Maddie Gittens

Harrisburg School Board meeting on Tuesday.

Harrisburg teens will soon need to lock up their phones when headed into school.

The Harrisburg School District will purchase locking phone pouches aimed at reducing digital distractions at the high school level.

At a school board meeting on Tuesday, Receiver Dr. Lori Suski approved the purchase of 1,477 pouches from Yondr, a national tech company, at a cost of $47,591.

The pouches will be used at Harrisburg High School-John Harris Campus in a pilot program, according to Acting Superintendent Dr. Marcia Stokes.

“What we have found, along with all the other school districts across the nation, is that kids have become so reliant on their cell phones—it’s become like an appendage to them. And what that does is create a lot of distractions when it comes to the educational process and the teachers trying to teach.”

Harrisburg joins schools around the country that are increasingly updating phone-use policies and turning to tools like Yondr to assist in the fight against device distractions.

Once implemented, likely when students return from winter break in January, the high school will effectively restrict phone access from the beginning of the school day until the end, Stokes said. When students enter the building, they will place their phones in small pouches that will lock using a magnetic system. At the end of the day, students will unlock their phones with the same magnetic device at the door on their way out of the building. Throughout the day, the students will keep the pouches with them, but will not be able to open them.

The commonwealth in recent months announced millions of dollars in grant funds to support school safety initiatives, including allowing districts to purchase Yondr pouches. However, the district had already begun looking into Yondr prior to the grant announcement and will use general fund money for the cost, Stokes said.

The school district currently has a no-phones-in-school policy that was updated several years ago, however, it’s been hard to enforce, Stokes said.

“We feel that Yondr is going to give us that extra step to truly enforce that no-cell-phone distraction during the school day,” she said.

Outside of phones distracting students during class, Stokes pointed out the prevalence of online bullying, the harmful effects of social media and behavioral incidents caused by students communicating via phones during the day.

“If we can at least keep that distraction outside of the school day it hopefully will not only improve the academics but also the overall culture of the building,” she said.

The phone-use problem has seemingly become worse after the pandemic and as a generation that has had phones most of their lives continues to age, Stokes said.

“Kids got phones younger; now this generation has grown up having that phone with them all the time and it’s become such a part of how they function on a daily basis,” she said.

The district expects pushback from students and parents, but plans to begin talking to them about the process and helping them adjust.

And while parents won’t be able to contact their children on their phones during the school days, Stokes said that they can email students using their school email addresses, which are accessed through school Chromebooks. Parents can also call the school office if they need to reach a student.

“It will be different because we are used to being able to shoot that text off and that won’t be a possibility any longer,” she said. “We will do our part, but it’s going to take the cooperation of our parents and students.”

For more information, visit the Harrisburg School District’s website.

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The Week that Was: News and features around Harrisburg

August 30, 2024 | by Lawrance Binda and Maddie Gittens

Mayor Wanda Williams announced the details of this year’s Kipona Festival, at a press conference on Thursday.

Have you heard the news? Our September issue of the magazine hit the stands this week! This month’s focus is on all things artsy. That’s right, even more art than usual. Grab a copy today or read online. While you’re here, find all of our news coverage from this week, below.

Bob’s Art Blog catches up with creatives around central PA, letting readers know what they’re up to. He also previews a giant puppet parade that will take place this weekend at Kipona Festival.

Friends of TheBurg Bash is coming up in September, and our publisher invites our readers to join. There are also several other ways to interact with TheBurg staff this month.

Harrisburg proposed constructing an entertainment pavilion in Riverfront Park, our online story reported. The city has applied for grant funding for the stage, which would be used for the city’s festivals and events.

Harrisburg School District selected its new superintendent of schools, Dr. Benjamin Henry, our online story reported.

Hispanic Heritage Month events will showcase the diversity of the Latino community, our online story reported. A group of local professionals and creatives has organized a month-long lineup of festivities.

Jazzy’s Good Eats opened in Midtown Harrisburg, after relocating from its former Kline Village shop, our online story reported. The takeout-only restaurant offers soul food classics.

Kipona Festival will return to Harrisburg for Labor Day weekend, our online story reported. This year’s event will include several new activities, as well as the usual food trucks, music and vendors.

Lindgren Craft Brewery opened in May, offering a selection of beers that will please just about anyone. In our magazine story, read about the father/son duo that spent years transforming a former bank building in Perry County into a brewery.

Penn State Health’s facility dog program brings in four-legged friends to help support young patients in the children’s hospital. In our magazine story, read about the impact of the program on families.

Police will crack down on illegally parked commercial vehicles in Harrisburg, our online story reported. The city has noticed and uptick in trucks parking in incorrect zones and issued a reminder that they are only allowed in designated areas.

“Queremos Justicia: How We Shut Down Berks” will come to the Susquehanna Art Museum for Hispanic Heritage Month, our online story reported. The exhibit will bring art and stories from the years-long movement to close an immigrant detention center in Berks County.

September brings plenty of unique events to celebrate the summer-to-fall transition. Find out what special events are taking place in our Community Corner. For an even more comprehensive list, read Happenings.

Sara Bozich has lots of fun ways for you to spend the long Labor Day weekend. Find them, here.

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Support quality local journalism. Join Friends of TheBurg today!

Harrisburg School District selects new superintendent of schools

August 27, 2024 | by Maddie Gittens

Dr. Benjamin Henry. Photo courtesy of the Harrisburg School District.

The Harrisburg School District has selected a new top official.

Dr. Benjamin Henry will soon serve as the new superintendent of schools, following a summer-long search, the district announced on Monday evening.

Henry fills the post left vacant by previous superintendent Eric Turman, who resigned and took a job as the superintendent of Central Dauphin School District. Following his resignation, receiver Dr. Lori Suski appointed Dr. Marcia Stokes, the district’s chief financial officer, as acting superintendent.

According to a press release from the district, Suski is slated to approve Henry’s appointment at a board meeting on Tuesday.

If approved, Henry’s four-year term would begin on Nov. 1, with Stokes continuing in the role in the meantime. The district has set Henry’s salary at $199,500.

Henry brings with him over two decades of experience in public schools, according to the district. He served as the regional assistant superintendent of Polk County Schools in Florida for the past four years, overseeing 29 schools. Before that, he held jobs as a special education teacher, a middle school math teacher and a principal. Henry was also appointed by the governor to serve on the state’s Education Ethics Committee.

Henry holds a bachelor’s degree in special education from Alabama State University, a master’s degree in computer information systems and a doctoral degree in educational leadership.

“The Harrisburg School District is eager to welcome Dr. Ben Henry as its next superintendent of schools. Dr. Henry has the full support of the elected school board,” Suski said.

Suski also said that Henry presents as a “systems thinker with a passion for urban education, a strong communicator and relationship builder.” His experience in education will also be helpful this year as the district enters the last year under the current three-year cycle of state-mandated receivership.

The district partnered with the Pennsylvania School Boards Association (PSBA) on the hiring search, which included community surveys, recruitment, interviewing and additional processes. The search committee reviewed 21 applications, interviewed seven candidates and selected Henry from among three finalists, according to the district.

For more information, visit the Harrisburg School District’s website.

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Premier Arts and Science Charter School in Harrisburg will close

July 1, 2024 | by Maddie Gittens

Premier Arts and Science Charter School

A Harrisburg charter school will soon close.

Premier Arts and Science Charter School in Allison Hill announced that it will not reopen for the 2024-25 school year, opting to not oppose charter non-renewal proceedings issued by the Harrisburg School District.

In March, the district commenced proceedings to not renew the school’s charter, which was originally granted in 2013. During a renewal evaluation period, district officials found issues such as students underperforming academically, low staff retention and non-compliant programs, among others.

According to a statement by Premier’s president of its board of directors, Pamela Spencer, the board voted at a June 27 meeting to cease opposition to the proceedings and immediately begin its dissolution, or “winding down,” period.

“Due to the timing of the non-renewal proceedings, the board of directors determined that it would be in the best interest of our families to cease our opposition and assist them in finding a new school for the 2024-2025 school year,” Spencer’s statement said.

Under Pennsylvania Charter School Law, Premier must follow a “winding down” process. The school will create a transition team consisting of a representative from the administration, teaching faculty and support staff, a student transition team to assist families in finding new schools and a staff transition team to help staff find employment elsewhere.

Premier’s prior charter term expired in June 2023, but the school was legally allowed to continue operating while the district conducted its review.

This was the second time that the district initiated non-renewal proceedings against Premier, the first being in 2018. However, at that time the district reached an agreement with the school to renew its charter with certain conditions like transitioning from a K-5 school to K-3 school.

While the school begins the closure process, Premier’s office hours will remain the same for now. Additionally, its summer enrichment program and extended school year services (ESY) will continue as scheduled.

School officials will also work with internal and external resources to support students’ social-emotional health and wellness, according to Spencer’s statement.

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