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It’s Friday, May 30, 2025: Happy Friday! This week, we look at how West Chester’s zoning code is failing us. While we all want happy little trees and charming streetscapes, the Zoning Code has made our favorite row homes illegal to build. West Chester’s Planning Commission would like to change that. In a new presentation, they explain how we get back to human-scale building and away from block-wide apartment complexes. Plus, ER wait times, teacher goodbyes, new outdoor dining options, and the West Chester Area School Board approves its budget – and another tax increase.
Who’s ready? Let’s catch up.
Correction: Last week, I shared the West Chester Area School Board voted unanimously to add the new position of Elementary Assistant Principal – which they did, however, they did not approve adding them to all 11 elementary schools. I got this email over the weekend:
“I apologize for the Sunday email, but we’ve had a few people reach out to the district regarding the mention of the elementary assistant principal positions in your newsletter. It’s actually only two elementary assistant principal positions that were approved, not one for each school,” Manager of District Communication Molly Schwemler wrote.
Sorry, about that, everyone. Who’s getting the extra help has not been announced yet, expect that by the end of summer.
“We’re carefully reviewing which elementary schools would benefit most from this added support,” said Molly. In making that decision, the District is reviewing building size, student population, Title I designations, and those schools offering additional programming, such as emotional support or services for English Learners.
Also, know that there is no plan to add assistant principals to all schools.
“At this time, we don’t plan to place an assistant principal in every elementary school. Instead, we’re focusing on adding support in buildings where these roles can best meet current needs, align with district initiatives, and where existing principals can serve as mentors,” said Molly.
From around the state: New PA bills would ban schools from purchasing or serving food containing certain synthetic food dyes, but allow them to serve whole milk.
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