Hermitage offered counseling in crisis

HERMITAGE -- Superintendent Karen Ionta told the school board Monday the district had building crisis meetings after school Tuesday and before the start of classes Wednesday to be sure that teachers and staff were prepared to handle questions or concerns about terrorist attacks.
Counselors from the Mercer County Behavioral Health Commission also were called in to speak to pupils and remain available if needed, Ionta said.
Saturday's football game included fireworks, and Ionta, in light of the heightened sense of security in the country, offered a public apology to anyone who might have been startled by the display.
In other matters, the school board approved additi`onal paving work around the Hermitage Elementary School at an estimated cost of $35,000.
The district has hired Sharon Paving & amp; Construction of Sharpsville to do the work, but a final cost figure isn't available, Ionta said.