Blossburg, Tioga County-

     In southern Tioga County, the future of North Penn High School is in question. It’s an old building that officials say is desperately in need of repairs.

     Parents are not pleased by the possibility of the school being shut down.

     Superintendent Joseph Kalata lamented, "It would be a huge loss to the Blossburg area if the high school wasn't here. There would definitely be an impact. And the school board is aware of that."

     But borrowing the money to fix it up could put the Southern Tioga School District under a dangerous amount of debt.

     That means North Penn could soon close, an idea scorned by parents.

     Kim Berguson, of Arnot, explained, "Well I feel it will split up our community. It's going to be tough on all the kids to make that big adjustment."

     Thomas McNamara, a North Penn graduate and former teacher in the district, agreed.

     He said, "I think it would ruin the community. It's a great community. We have great support of our athletic teams and parent support for everything, for every event."

     A major factor in the decision is a steadily declining enrollment.

     The district has two other high schools, Mansfield and Liberty, which are already operating well under capacity. North Penn students could be moved to those schools if their high school is closed.

     But some optimists say gas drilling and other development could turn enrollment numbers around. They believe North Penn should be renovated and kept.

     Kalata added, "We have a lot of workers in town and we're trying to gauge and find out from people whether they'll be bringing families with children in. And that could have a significant impact on filling up our schools."

     Berguson noted, "There's always a way to solve problems. I'm sure we can find ways to make money or find the money somewhere."

     McNamara concluded, "It's a tough situation. The school board has a tough decision. And I just wish we could fix North Penn and keep it as good old North Penn."

     School directors say they'll continue to gather information and public input on their options. A final decision is expected next April.