Wilkes-Barre Area School District

Christmas came early for students at Dr. David W. Kistler Elementary School in Wilkes-Barre on Thursday, thanks to athletes from Wilkes University.

Wilkes-Barre Area Superintendent Brian Costello said the Solomon-Plains school complex will remain closed through Christmas break to clean smoke damage from a Nov. 20 fire, but the district will not require students to attend virtual classes during that time.

A Thursday morning fire at the Solomon Junior High building damaged several classrooms and has the entire school complex closed for at least two days, Wilkes-Barre Area Superintendent Brian Costello said.

Bear Creek Community Charter School could run out of money for payroll or be forced to temporarily close if the state budget impasse reaches into the new year. While school districts statewide deplete fund reserves, secure loans or cancel activities in month five without a state budget, charter schools such as the one in Luzerne County face another financial obstacle.

It looks like the upcoming special election for Lackawanna County commissioner will decide who permanently replaces former commissioner Matt McGloin. A court ruling Monday says former county employee Brenda Sacco can temporarily replace McGloin.

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Wilkes-Barre Area’s cheer and football teams came together to fight for a cure, raising $1,795 for the Cancer Wellness Center of NEPA.

Wilkes-Barre Area’s cheer and football teams are joining forces to fight for a cure. All money raised ahead of Oct. 10’s pink-out game will go to the Cancer Wellness Center of NEPA.

A Pennsylvania budget stalemate and uncertainty with federal funding have caused some school leaders to raise taxes, explore short-term loans and advocate for fair funding.

Teachers are in short supply nationwide and in Pennsylvania. School districts in our region are finding creative ways to train and recruit more.

The Pinchot Mansion in Pike County will host unique tours this Saturday. In Williamsport, a museum will offer half price for National Train Day and Maker Fest is happening at the Bloomsburg Fairgrounds.