Lansdowne, PA – June 25, 2026
As Penn Wood High School approaches its 100th anniversary in 2027, the William Penn School District has released a new documentary that provides an honest look at the realities of teaching and learning inside one of the region’s oldest high school buildings.
Created in partnership with Penn Wood High School alumnus Johnathan Kolleh (’08), the documentary features the voices of students, staff, administrators, and community members who share their experiences learning and working in a building constructed in 1927. While the film highlights the pride, resilience, and achievements of the WPSD community, it also illustrates the urgent need for investment in modern school facilities.
Throughout the documentary, students and educators speak candidly about the challenges of aging infrastructure, including outdated building systems and learning environments that no longer meet the needs of today’s students. During the final weeks of the 2025–26 school year, extreme temperatures forced the district to implement early dismissals and building closures at Penn Wood High School because the building lacks air conditioning, disrupting instruction for students and staff.
Despite these challenges, WPSD students continue to excel academically, athletically, artistically, and in service to their community. The district has also demonstrated significant academic growth in recent years, reflecting the dedication of its students, educators, and staff. The documentary serves as a reminder that while remarkable progress is being made, the condition of the district’s facilities remains one of its greatest challenges.
“This film tells the story of our students and staff and the conditions they experience every day,” said Superintendent Dr. Eric J. Becoats. “While our students continue to achieve and our district continues to make significant academic progress, our facilities remain one of our greatest challenges.”
The documentary has been shared with local and state elected officials, Governor Josh Shapiro’s office, members of the William Penn School District community, and media partners as part of the district’s ongoing advocacy for increased investment in school facilities and capital funding.
We invite our families, residents, alumni, and community partners to take a few moments to watch the documentary and share it with others. By raising awareness of the conditions inside Penn Wood High School, we hope to build support for the investments needed to provide our students and staff with learning environments that reflect their talent, potential, and promise.
