Duquesne Families,

Please see the statement below — issued by the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) — regarding the ongoing Feasibility Study on the future of the district. 

"Since the start of his Administration, Governor Josh Shapiro has committed to investments that ensure every child, in every community, has access to a high-quality public education – no matter their ZIP code or family income. That’s why he signed a 2026-27 budget earlier this week that invests $11.85 billion in major K-12 education subsidies for Pennsylvania students for the first time ever – representing a nearly 35 percent increase compared to before Governor Shapiro took office.

Investments are not just money – they are also time and effort. When circumstances demand new ideas, the Shapiro Administration is committed to finding solutions that mean more opportunities for children. Duquesne City School District (DCSD) has been a distressed district for 26 years. DCSD is currently in Receivership, the most restrictive designation of financial recovery requiring direct oversight of educational, financial, and operational functions. The underlying structural deficits in the district are long term, and it is necessary to determine potential solutions to this issue. 

Earlier this year, as directed under Act 47 of 2025 (Section 1607 of the School Code), the Pennsylvania Department of Education (PDE) conducted the first phase of a feasibility study assessing the education, financial, administrative and community impacts of potentially consolidating DCSD with another school district. The first phase included a community survey of staff, families, and community members in four school districts identified as potential consolidation partners. 

Now, we are moving into the next phase of this project to complete the feasibility study, which will focus an in-depth analysis on McKeesport Area School District as a potential partner with the Duquesne City School District. The analysis will include further evaluation of governance, finance, school facilities and safety, school climate, and educational programs. We’ve also begun working with district leaders to establish an advisory committee charged with ensuring consistent communication with members of the public and transparency throughout the process of conducting this study.

The complete study, which will include findings and recommendations, will be done no later than March 1, 2027. We look forward to continued engagement with members of both communities, and we appreciate all of the feedback and participation thus far. The Shapiro Administration will continue its commitment to creating opportunity for Duquesne City School District students and all Pennsylvania students."