Keystone submits required closure plan as a precaution

LA PLUME, LACKAWANNA CO. — Keystone College has recently submitted a plan in case of a potential closure.

It follows the college’s financial struggles and the mutual decision to not partner with the Washington Institute of Education and Research.

Keystone was asked by the Middles States Commission on Higher Education to create a teach-out plan in order to safeguard its students.

A statement of accreditation status update was made by the commission after plans for partnership ended.

The commission requires a teach-out plan after large changes so students can continue their education elsewhere in the event a college closes.

In a statement to students, college President John Pullo said part in quote:

“Having a teach-out plan in place does not mean the College is going to enact it nor is it an indication that the College will alter its academic offerings or operations.”

Students we spoke to said they were concerned when they got the letter but understand it is a precaution.

“It’s ok. Like I get it, they’re taking precautions just in case it were to close down but I don’t believe it will. I like Keystone, I think it’s a good school," said Freshman Diamond O’Dowd. " At the point in time, I’m just going to wait until it gets confirmed or denied but as of right now, I’m not too worried about it.”

A member of the football team, Freshman Brock Kreider, told us their coach said not to worry and just focus on college life.

“When you come to college, the last thing you anticipate doing is talking about the possibilities of the school closing but for a football aspect, I think we have a lot of unfinished business to do as a program," said Kreider.

And with a month left in the semester, students say their focus is just finishing the school year.

“We’re planning on keeping our heads down, and just going against, doing our work and finishing out the year strong," said Kreider.

Keystone’s graduation is May 18th.