CAPA to merge middle and high schools

The Pittsburgh School Board reviewed plans to consolidate Pittsburgh CAPA (Creative and Performing Arts) High School with Rogers CAPA 6-8 into a single building at a committee meeting last night.

Derrick Lopez, Chief of High School Reform of Pittsburgh, said the merger has many benefits.

"We've been committed to one vision... to create a system of school options that offer high quality and academically rigorous programs and promote high student achievement in the most equitable and cost-effective manner," Lopez said.

Having the current CAPA High School building with Rogers CAPA saves money because it skips the step of building more classrooms and studios elsewhere. Lopez said expanding the current high school building also builds a stronger bond and foundation from students to faculty.

Should the school board pass the proposal, the merged school will take effect in the 2009-10 school year.