This article is published on KEYSTONE, Volume 1: Issue 2, Spring 2025.
Mr. George Teegarden, printing instructor began the publication of “The Holiday Gazette,” the school’s first school newsletter. The first issue was dated December 25, 1890. Harry Branson was hired as a printing teacher. He was a former foreman and then editor of the Ohio Chronicle at the Ohio School for the Deaf. “The Gazette” was changed to “The Western Pennsylvanian” (WPAN). The first issue of WPAN came out on February 1, 1893, with Mr. Branson as an editor.
Also Mr. Branson published “The Little Pennsylvanian” for children read year 1907-08.
1915 Alumni Association suggested to-add Alumni News report by Alumni reporter, who Cyril Painter ‘1897 In-1926 Alumni Association suggested change size WPAN (10 by 15) reduced (8½ by 11) same-standard paper size.
In 1942 the school began an Honor Roll which was published three times a year and was copied in the school’s paper, The Western Pennsylvanian. The Honor Roll contained the names of all the students above the Primary grade level whose work was checked as satisfactory in every subject for the previous semester.
In 1948 Alumni Association suggested individual senior picture put-in WPAN. From 1948 to 1968 WPAN Senior Edition continued till 1969. School published yearbook, subtract WPAN. WPAN and Yearbook still carried. You can find the Yearbook in www.wpsdalumni.org.
When Scranton School for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Children (short-name SSDHHC) under WPSD, news from SSDHHC put-in WPAN start 2009.
The first volume (Vol 1 #1) of the Western Pennsylvanian (WPAN) was released on February 1, 1893. Several years ago, an error in the volume numbering was noticed—an oversight that had occurred many years earlier. However, it was decided not to correct the discrepancy. Instead, the numbering system was restarted with a new Volume 1. Now, as we turn the page on this remarkable chapter, it is fitting that this final issue bears the designation Vol 133 No 2.
The Western Pennsylvanian began its journey in 1893 under the editorship of Harry Branson. For 133 years, it has served as a valuable chronicle of WPSD’s history, capturing the school’s events, student achievements, and community life. The early editions were rich with student-written articles, detailed accounts of school activities, and updates on alumni. Over the years, the publication evolved, embracing photography, modern design elements, and a contemporary writing style.
As WPSD grew, so did its publication. The Western Pennsylvanian documented significant milestones, such as the construction of new buildings, the expansion of academic and vocational programs, and the addition of athletic and extracurricular opportunities. The magazine chronicled the impact of technological advancements in deaf education, from the introduction of typewriters in classrooms to the era of videophones and digital communication. It recorded the school’s survival through two world wars, the Great Depression, and the evolution of deaf rights movements.
Now, we embark on a new era with the magazine’s transformation into Keystone. Pennsylvania is known as the “Keystone State” for its central role in the founding of the United States. Its strategic location among the original 13 colonies made it essential to the nation’s political, economic, and geographical unity. The state played a pivotal role in the signing of both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution, symbolizing its foundational importance. The nickname Keystone State has been widely recognized since the 1800s.
This new name reflects a broader perspective on statewide organization, not just WPSD. Our institution has evolved into a far-reaching network supporting deaf and hard-of-hearing students across Pennsylvania. With this change, Keystone will showcase WPSD, SSDHHC (Scranton), Edinboro, Hershey, and Choices for Children. Each issue will highlight the extraordinary work being done across our campuses and programs, demonstrating our continued commitment to excellence in deaf education.
As we celebrate our past and look toward the future, we honor the legacy of the Western Pennsylvanian and the countless students, teachers, and staff who contributed to its success. Keystone represents more than a name change it is a testament to our growth, resilience, and vision for the future.
Here’s Keystone, the next chapter in our storied history!