• Frequently Asked Questions

    Updated: April 2, 2025

    1. When did the planning process for the new elementary school begin?

    The planning process began in 2022 when TESD identified the need for a new elementary school. In February and March 2023, Dr. Richard Gusick, Superintendent of Schools, and Dr. Wendy Towle, Director of Curriculum, Instruction, Staff Development and Planning, held five community presentations to share an update on TESD elementary enrollment trends and the impact on facilities utilization. Additional details about the process that led to the decision to open a sixth elementary school are available at www.tesd.net/enrollment.

    At the May 28, 2024 Regular School Board Meeting, the School Board adopted a resolution approving a new K-4 elementary school, full-day kindergarten and a new Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) special. In addition, Dr. Gusick presented an overview of the work leading up to the launch of the new elementary school at the meeting.

    Once the new school building is open, TESD will have the space to provide full-day kindergarten, accommodate the District’s high elementary student enrollment, and address expanding programming needs for all students.

    1. When will the design phase be completed?

    The design phase, including architectural planning and layout finalization, is currently being completed. Bid specifications for construction were published on March 28, 2025.

    1. When will construction begin?

    The selective interior demolition phase was completed in February 2025. During this period, most interior walls, flooring, ceilings, mechanicals, and plumbing were removed in preparation for the building’s conversion to an elementary school. The building is currently gutted, with primarily steel and concrete remaining. Construction is expected to begin in August 2025.

    1. What is the name of the new elementary school?

    Following an extensive public engagement process, the School Board approved Bear Hill Elementary School as the name of the new school. The naming process included multiple opportunities for community input. The Ad Hoc Public Information Committee met in November to initiate discussions, followed by an online form that allowed community members to submit name suggestions. After reviewing submissions, a second Public Information Committee Meeting was held in January, and another online form allowed the public to provide feedback on the final four name choices. The process concluded with a final Committee meeting in March, before the School Board officially approved the name at its meeting on March 24. The selection of Bear Hill Elementary School reflects the community’s voice and a shared vision for the new school.

    1. When is the expected opening date for the new elementary school?

    The projected opening date for the new elementary school is August 2027. Between now and the fall of 2027, TESD staff will work diligently with the School Board and community to prepare for the successful launch of the new school. The District will focus on nine areas in preparation for the opening of the school in August 2027: construction, financing, Elementary Blueprint for Instruction, redistricting, special education, staffing, safety and security, equity, and transportation.

    1. How will the new elementary school be financed?

    During the 2023-2024 school year, the District reviewed its long-term financial plan with the community. Strategies for financing the new school include producing additional revenues to contribute to the capital fund and issuing bonds.  Moving forward, the District will work to ensure that the annual budget can support expenses related to the operation of the new school.

    1. What is the Elementary Blueprint for Instruction, and how will it impact the new elementary school?

    The Elementary Blueprint for Instruction is a framework that ensures a high-quality, standardized educational experience across all TESD elementary schools. The Blueprint will guide upcoming initiatives, including the new Full-Day Kindergarten Program, the new Pennsylvania Science, Technology & Engineering, and Environmental Literacy and Sustainability (STEELS) standards, and a new STEM special at the elementary level.

    1. How will redistricting of student attendance areas be determined?

    The School Board plans to establish an Ad Hoc Redistricting Committee to determine the parameters for redistricting. The parameters will be finalized during the 2025-2026 school year, and the District will begin developing a new enrollment areas map to balance student populations.

    1. When will the redistricting plan be finalized?

    The redistricting plan is expected to be finalized by January 2027. TESD will communicate directly with affected families throughout the process. The District will also design and implement transition activities while offering continuous support to students and families to ensure a seamless adjustment.

    1. How will transportation be affected by the new school?

    Once the new student enrollment areas have been determined, TESD will adjust bus routes and schedules to accommodate the new elementary school.

    1. When will TESD begin hiring teachers and staff for the new school?

    TESD will begin the hiring process in early 2026, ensuring that faculty and staff are in place before the school's opening in August 2027​.

    1. How can potential candidates apply for positions at the new school?

    Interested candidates can visit the Human Resources section of the TESD website for job postings and application instructions.

    1. How can I stay informed on the progression of the new elementary school project?

    The District remains committed to open communication and ongoing collaboration with families, staff, and community members throughout the new elementary school project. Stakeholders are encouraged to stay engaged in the process as we work together to provide the best possible educational experience for all TESD students and families. Community members can monitor the progress of the new elementary school project by subscribing to the District’s e-newsletter, T/E-News, and by periodically visiting the New Elementary School section on the TESD website, located at www.tesd.net/newelementaryschool.

    1. Who should I contact if I have questions about specific aspects of the new elementary school?

    The New Elementary School section of the TESD website contains a document outlining the areas of responsibility for the new elementary school. Staff members’ contact information is listed under each category.