Compiled By Duane Good
Discussions of a proposed merger of the Millersburg and Upper Dauphin Area school districts continued with a Community Focus Group meeting held Jan. 28.
According to information posted on each district’s respective website, about 75 people – ranging from current students to parents to business and community leaders – met to present their thoughts on how a merged district should operate in a variety of areas. Those in attendance were broken down into five groups.
Complete results are on the websites. A summary of comments and recommendations is reported this week as follows.
School-Year Calendar
• There was support for both a later start date – including a ‘’transitional’’ half-week to start the year – and earlier end date. It was noted that student motivation often decreases after major year-end events like Keystone Exams or prom.
• Start date should be consistent every year, perhaps based on Labor Day. • Prom and commencement should be coordinated with longstanding community events like Cherry Blossom Festival. Prom should perhaps be held Saturday.
• Christmas/New Years break could be shortened, and there could be a longer break around Good Friday and Easter.
• Snow days should
SEE MERGER • PAGE A8