More than 868 community members have signed a growing petition to save Sheffield Area High School following the Warren County School District’s decision on January 13 to close the school.

The vote, which passed by a narrow margin, has sparked outrage, with residents calling it a “shortcut” solution that overlooks the broader issues within the district.

“This decision doesn’t address the real problems our district faces,” said Nate Lindberg, petition organizer. “It’s a band-aid solution that fails our students and community. We’re urging the district to reconsider and work toward meaningful change.”

The petition not only seeks to reverse the closure but also calls for a comprehensive reevaluation of the district’s challenges.

“We need real solutions that address the root causes of the district’s issues,” Lindberg said. “Closing schools is not the answer–it’s time to explore innovative approaches to education that prioritize students and communities.”

Supporters of the petition emphasize the importance of the school’s role in the community and the challenges the closure will pose for families. Alyssa, a parent, shared, “I chose to raise my kids in Sheffield so they could attend Sheffield School. This decision strips us of that option. Many children don’t thrive in large classrooms–think about the kids before salaries!”

Another signer, Dylan, reflected on the town’s identity, stating, “Sheffield is special. Losing the school means losing a vital part of our community. If this decision isn’t reversed, families like mine will be forced to move elsewhere for a small-town school experience.”

Critics argue the closure fails to consider its emotional, social, and logistical impacts. Kirsten, a local student, expressed concerns about overcrowding at other schools, saying, “WAHS is already crowded, and this will only make things worse. Students hate the long trips and the packed hallways.”

Christopher, a former coach, highlighted long-term consequences: “This decision was made from a purely financial perspective. The emotional and social damage will far outweigh the cost savings in the long run.”

The petition urges the district to pause the closures and explore alternative approaches to address systemic issues. It also calls on the Pennsylvania Secretary of Education and the Court of Common Pleas to intervene.

According to Research for Action, a nonprofit education research organization, courts have not held districts to any specific evidentiary burden or recognized any rights of appeal for families, teachers, or others in the community. The appeals process in state law refers to a school district that finds itself aggrieved by a reorganizational plan adopted by a county school board being able to petition the state Board of Education if the appeal is filed within 30 days. Under that scenario, the board sets a date for a hearing, with three or more members of the board constituting the state board for hearing purposes. That decision can then be appealed, by a school district, to the Court of Common Pleas in the county where the school is located.

A similar petition has been filed by Youngsville residents on change.org with more than 1,170 online signatures.

“This isn’t just about Sheffield. It’s about ensuring every child in our district has access to quality education close to home,” Lindberg said. “This is a fight for our children’s future, our town’s identity, and our collective spirit.”