SLIPPERY ROCK TWP – The fate of an iconic wooden barn remains up in the air as Slippery Rock Area School District alumni and area residents asked the board of education Monday, April 24, to carefully consider all options.

The white barn, at 101 Rocket Drive in Slippery Rock Township, features the phrase “This is Rocket Territory” in red letters and serves as unheated storage space for groundskeeping equipment and materials.

A recent report compiled by Barber & Hoffman, a structural engineering firm, recommended structural bracing “as soon as possible.” It stated that use of the barn should be discontinued if costly repairs are not made. It described signs of framing deterioration, lateral foundation movement and an improper framing modification.

“Some of these landmarks we need to cherish and think twice about what we do with them. Because once they’re gone, they’re gone. So in your deliberation, try to remember that there’s no bringing them back,” said Robert Steele, a 1965 graduate, in his appeal to the board.

David Smith, a 1978 graduate and former captain of the football team, said the barn is a symbol.

“When we came back from away games, it’s the place we started to sing our alma mater. It was our welcome home. It was a warning to our opponents that they were entering Rocket Territory,” Smith said. “All I’m asking for is due diligence be taken to evaluate all options for this structure. It’s a landmark cherished by many in our community.”

Smith, who cited his experience as an engineer, said he feels that the only things that can bring the barn down are tornadoes, a fire or a wrecking ball.

“Please evaluate all options closely,” Smith. said.

The report from Barber & Hoffman stated, “structural deficiencies observed all tend to compromise stability, particularly the overall leaning of the wall, floor and columns. When walls and columns are out of vertical alignment, additional load from self weight, equipment and items stored can amplify leaning and lead to an unstable condition.”

In March, Slippery Rock school district superintendent Alfonso Angelucci said it would cost about $300,000 to repair the barn.

Dr. Robert Watson, Slippery Rock alumnus and former board member, requested that the school board understand and know the history of the barn.

“Those that fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it, and our local history is fascinating. I’ve studied it for more than 60 years, and a piece of that history is that white barn that stands atop the entrance,” Watson said.

“Our past is worth researching, it’s worth knowing, and it’s worth using. Just like that old barn. Yes, it needs repair, and the longer we wait, the more repairs there will be. Learn the barn’s history, to understand what it is today. Know the facts to make your best decision,” he said.

Vito Pilosi, board president, said the board understands and supports the sentimental and historical value of the barn.

“There are legalities and compliance that need to be addressed. If anyone would like to volunteer to run fundraising, or make donations, or help, I encourage it,” said Pilosi.

At its Monday, April 24, meeting, Slippery Rock school district’s board:

√ Approved air quality testing for elementary schools.

√ Approved the contract renewal with Metz Culinary Management for the 2023-24 school year.

√ Approved the “Monitoring the Future” survey for 10th-grade students. “Monitoring the Future” is a survey designed to provide data in comparison to nationwide data. Topics evaluated include student experiences in school, vaping, happiness and well-being, tobacco, nicotine, alcohol and other drugs, future plans and aspirations, peer environment, safety and victimization, and more.

The results of the study can be useful in monitoring health goals and trends, developing prevention plans, and assisting with the decisions affecting the student culture.

√ Saw the month’s Rocket Pride Award presented to Lou Dejulia, middle school physical education teacher.

He was nominated by Rob Brown, security officer, for “helping students be their best every day.” Brown said Dejulia is a “high-caliber teacher who helps students before and after school.”

√ Heard the Athletic Committee report that the boys track and field team placed first against 80 teams at the Butler Invitational in a day that ran from early morning hours to after midnight.