FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Updated: December 3, 2025
- When did the planning process for the new elementary school begin?
The planning process began in 2022 when TESD identified the need for a new elementary school. In February and March 2023, Dr. Richard Gusick, Superintendent of Schools, and Dr. Wendy Towle, Director of Curriculum, Instruction, Staff Development, and Planning, held five community presentations to share an update on TESD elementary enrollment trends and the impact on facilities utilization. Additional details about the process that led to the decision to open a sixth elementary school are available at www.tesd.net/enrollment.
At the May 28, 2024 Regular School Board Meeting, the School Board adopted a resolution approving a new K-4 elementary school, full-day kindergarten, and a new Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) special. In addition, Dr. Gusick presented an overview of the work leading up to the launch of the new elementary school at the meeting.
Once the new school building is open, TESD will have the space to provide full-day kindergarten, accommodate the District’s high elementary student enrollment, and address expanding programming needs for all students.
2. When did construction begin?
On July 31, 2025, members of the Tredyffrin/Easttown School District School Board and administration, along with representatives from Heckendorn Shiles Architects, gathered to celebrate the official groundbreaking of Bear Hill Elementary School, marking the beginning of construction. For construction updates, visit the Bear Hill Elementary School web page.
3. What is the name of the new elementary school?
Following an extensive public engagement process, the School Board approved Bear Hill Elementary School as the new school's name. The naming process included multiple opportunities for community input. The Ad Hoc Public Information Committee met in November to initiate discussions, followed by an online form that allowed community members to submit name suggestions. After reviewing submissions, a second Public Information Committee Meeting was held in January, and another online form allowed the public to provide feedback on the final four name choices. The process concluded with a final Committee meeting in March, followed by the School Board's official approval of the name at its March 24 meeting. The selection of Bear Hill Elementary School reflects the community’s voice and a shared vision for the new school.
4. When is the expected opening date for the new elementary school?
The projected opening date for the new elementary school is August 2027. Between now and the fall of 2027, TESD staff will work diligently with the School Board and community to prepare for the successful launch of the new school. The District will focus on nine areas in preparation for the school's opening in August 2027: construction, financing, Elementary Blueprint for Instruction, redistricting, special education, staffing, safety and security, equity, and transportation.
5. How will the new elementary school be financed?
During the 2023-2024 school year, the District reviewed its long-term financial plan with the community. Strategies for financing the new school include producing additional revenues to contribute to the capital fund and issuing bonds. Moving forward, the District will work to ensure the annual budget supports the operating expenses of the new school.
6. What is the Elementary Blueprint for Instruction, and how will it impact the new elementary school?
The Elementary Blueprint for Instruction is a framework that ensures a high-quality, standardized educational experience across all TESD elementary schools. The Blueprint will guide upcoming initiatives, including the new Full-Day Kindergarten Program, the new Pennsylvania Science, Technology & Engineering, and Environmental Literacy and Sustainability (STEELS) standards, and a new STEM special at the elementary level.
7. How will redistricting of student attendance areas be determined?
The School Board has established an Ad Hoc Redistricting Committee to determine the parameters for redistricting. The parameters will be finalized during the 2025-2026 school year, and the District will begin developing a new enrollment areas map to balance student populations. For the Ad Hoc Redistricting Committee's meeting dates and times, visit the Committee's webpage. All Committee meetings are open to the public.
8. When will the redistricting plan be finalized?
The redistricting plan is expected to be finalized by January 2027. TESD will communicate directly with affected families throughout the process. The District will also design and implement transition activities while offering continuous support to students and families to ensure a seamless adjustment.
9. How will transportation be affected by the new school?
Once the new student enrollment areas have been determined, TESD will adjust bus routes and schedules to accommodate the new elementary school.
10. When will TESD begin hiring teachers and staff for the new school?
TESD will begin the hiring process in late 2026, ensuring faculty and staff are in place before the school's opening in August 2027.
11. How can potential candidates apply for positions at the new school?
Interested candidates can visit the Human Resources section of the TESD website for job postings and application instructions.
12. How can I stay informed on the progression of the new elementary school project?
The District remains committed to open communication and ongoing collaboration with families, staff, and community members throughout the new elementary school project. Stakeholders are encouraged to stay engaged in the process as we work together to provide the best possible educational experience for all TESD students and families. Community members can monitor the progress of the new elementary school project by subscribing to the District’s e-newsletter, T/E-News, and by periodically visiting the New Elementary School section on the TESD website.
13. Who should I contact if I have questions about specific aspects of the new elementary school?
The New Elementary School section of the TESD website includes a document outlining the new elementary school's areas of responsibility. Staff members’ contact information is listed under each category.