A packed courtroom at the Warren County Courthouse watched as Senior Judge James Arner held off on issuing a ruling Monday in the case “Save WCSD” v. Warren County School District (#76-25).

The lawsuit seeks to block or delay the planned closure of Youngsville Middle�’High School, but no decision was announced as proceedings ended. Judge Arner, a senior judge from Clarion County, informed the crowd – many dressed in red – that he needed additional time to review the case.

“I will provide my order, making my decision, just as soon as I can,” he stated.

No timeline was provided for the expected ruling.

In January, the Warren County School Board voted 5-4 to shutter Sheffield and Youngsville High Schools for the 2025-26 school year, merging both with nearby districts. Students from Youngsville are currently slated to attend Eisenhower, and Sheffield students to Warren Area High School.

Representing the plaintiffs, attorney Thomas Pendleton of McDonald Illig and Save WCSD member Elizabeth Feronti argued that the district is violating students’ rights under the Pennsylvania Constitution’s Education Clause. That clause mandates a “thorough and efficient” public education system, ensuring each student “a meaningful opportunity to succeed academically, socially, and civically.”

“We believe the board acted in an arbitrary and egregious manner, ignoring the input of the communities most affected,” said Pendleton during his remarks to the judge.

The plaintiffs also alleged that four of the five school board members who voted in favor of the closures do not reside in the Sheffield or Youngsville attendance areas.

“It feels like decisions are being made by people who won’t have to live with the consequences,” Feronti said outside the courthouse. “This is about more than just buildings – it’s about community identity and educational equity.”

In defense, Superintendent Gary Weber and school board attorney Michael Musone cited declining enrollment, teacher shortages, and financial constraints as justification for the closures.

“We are facing significant challenges that require difficult decisions,” said Weber. “Our goal is to continue offering a quality education, even if that means consolidating resources.”

More than 130 residents – many from Youngsville – packed the courtroom wearing red, a symbol of support for keeping the school open. Their quiet but visible presence spoke volumes about the emotional weight of the decision.

“This school is the heart of our town,” said Youngsville resident and alumna Julie Carr. “Losing it would be like losing a piece of who we are.”

“It’s hard to see our kids and neighbors feeling like their voices don’t matter,” added Brian Miller, another community member in attendance. “We just want fairness, and for our kids to have the same opportunities as anyone else.”

Judge Arner actively questioned both sides throughout the day-long evidentiary hearing, probing for clarity on the constitutional and procedural claims. By day’s end, he opted to study the matter further before rendering a decision.

No date has been set for when Judge Arner will issue his ruling. Both the school district and the Save WCSD group must wait until his written order is delivered.

District officials maintain the closure plan is necessary for long-term financial sustainability, while local residents say it threatens the fabric of their towns.

“We’re not giving up,” said Feronti. “No matter what happens, we’re going to keep fighting for our kids and our schools.”