How a Vacant School Building Became a Symbol of Loss, and Then Hope, for a Dying Small Town

In this engaging discussion, Jean-Marie Laskus, a professor at the University of Pittsburgh and the creator of "Cement City," shares her insights on the closure of the only school in Donora, Pennsylvania. She highlights how education shapes community identity and the potential revival through a community college initiative. The stories woven into her podcast reveal the deep emotional connections locals have to the vacant school, showcasing resilience in the face of decline. The episode touches on powerful themes of loss, hope, and the importance of documenting small-town narratives.