CHAMBERSBURG – The Scotland School for Veterans Children may be up for sale again, according to state Sen. Doug Mastriano (R-Franklin/Adams).
The school, which has some 70 buildings on 185 acres, was closed due to state budget cuts in 2009. Last year, it was considered as a possible location for unaccompanied minor migrant children, but that was abandoned among intense community opposition.
Among the 70 buildings are a school, library, gym, pool, theater, rec hall, housing, a chapel, machine shops and administration building.
Mastriano said, a recent injunction hearing involved the Scotland campus property in Greene Township, near Chambersburg. Contractors have filed claims totaling over $600,000, and a judgment has been entered that could place the property in a sheriff’s sale on Jan. 9, according to Mastriano.
At the same time, rumors of potential buyers have circulated. These buyers are reportedly interested in a multi-use vision for the site, with indications the plans could include educational and veterans’ uses.
Several questions remain unanswered, the senator said:
- Will potential buyers step in and resolve outstanding issues before the sheriff’s sale?
- Will additional legal action delay the process?
- Or will the property ultimately be sold at sheriff’s sale?
The future of the Scotland campus remains uncertain, Mastriano said.
According to a state website, the school was founded in 1895 and was the only residential school in the nation specifically designed and accredited to educate and care for the children of Pennsylvania military service veterans. Over 10,000 graduates have gone on to distinguish themselves in a wide variety of careers and endeavors. The school curriculum included a junior ROTC program, strong academics, caring homelife program, accomplished sports teams and alumni and parent support.
