Statements released on future of Keystone College
LA PLUME, LACKAWANNA COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) — The Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) released a statement to clear the air concerning the future of Keystone College.
On May 8, MSCHE said in a statement the commission aims to “correct misleading information” in regard to the college and its future.
28/22 News previously reported on the potential closure of Keystone College in Lackawanna County and that the institution would need to show why its doors shouldn’t close.
The commission clarified in the statement that Keystone College reported to the MSCHE of an incoming closure.
Because of the report, the college was asked by the commission to submit the “substantive change for institutional closure,” according to the statement.
The MSCHE explained on April 25, the commission got the submission of a substantive change request for institutional closure from Keystone and “to note that the institution is in danger of imminent closure.”
According to the statement, Keystone College was compelled to plan for an “orderly closure,” and should the college not close, it could pull the substantive change for institutional closure.
The statement also says the MSCHE took action requiring Keystone College to “show cause” by August 1.
MSCHE says the failure to show cause needs a teach-out plan and agreements, including important disclosures to the institution’s community.
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The commission claims this is because of the material Keystone College sent to them about the college’s withdrawal of the complex substantive change request for a change in the form of control, legal status, or ownership and about the status of the institution.
“While the Commission is aware of continued negotiations by Keystone College with a potential partner, the imminent closure remains a concern as any transactions under the Commission’s complex substantive change policy, procedures, and guidelines can take up to a year to review.”
MSCHE
The commission says that, as of May 8, Keystone College doesn’t have permission to propose a “complex substantive change request.”
Colleges in a non-compliance status need an extra procedural step where they have to get permission from the MSCHE to send in a complex substantive change request.
The statement explains the MSCHE isn’t reviewing any agreements with possible investment partners at this time doesn’t have a request under review for permission to send in a complex substantive change, and hasn’t supported any agreements with partners or investors.
“The Commission centers students in its work and is committed to fulfilling its responsibilities within the regulatory triad and ensuring the highest quality of service to students, institutions, and the public.”
MSCHE
Keystone College also sent out a press release on the statement from MSCHE.
“Keystone College highly values its accreditation from and relationship with MSCHE. We agree with the facts that were presented in the recent statement and whole-heartedly support our shared missions to guide and serve our students through their educational journey.”
President John F. Pullo, Sr.
The MSCHE says they’ll keep working with Keystone College, the Pennslyvania Department of Education, and the United States Department of Education.
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