A $100,000 bequest in memory of a former teacher and her family is expected to bring lasting improvements to the district's two elementary libraries.

Helen Kerti, who died in March, made the bequest to the Consortium for Public Education and directed that the money go to the district to improve the library at Port Vue Elementary School. Her daughter, Sharon, had worked 29 years as an art teacher in the district until her death in 2002.

Because the Port Vue school closed in 2002, the improvement projects will be split between South Allegheny's Early Childhood Center and its elementary school.

The libraries will expand and update their book collections, get new furnishings and do community outreach aimed at early literacy. All of the new books will contain nameplates in memory of Sharon Kerti and some of her artwork may become part of the libraries' permanent displays.

The Consortium, headquartered in McKeesport, is overseeing planning and administering the funds over three years. The Consortium also will place plaques in the libraries in recognition of Mrs. Kerti's bequest and supply literacy guides to be used in the community outreach efforts.

"Mrs. Kerti's bequest recognizes how important early literacy is to every child's success in school," said Linda Croushore, Consortium executive director.

"It's a wonderful gift from a wise mother and we're pleased to help turn it into a lasting tribute to her daughter and an enduring legacy for the district."

South Allegheny Superintendent Elaine Brown said the gift couldn't have come at a better time. A recent inventory of the elementary book collection found many volumes outdated or in worn condition.

• In recognition of National Fire Prevention Week, the Liberty Boro Fire Department will present a program tomorrow beginning at 9:45 a.m. to the students at the South Allegheny Early Childhood Center.

At 2 p.m. tomorrow, the Port Vue Fire Department will present a similar program at the South Allegheny elementary.

Also, Geologist Jeff Smith will host a "Geodes Seminar" for all third-graders at the South Allegheny elementary starting at 9 am. tomorrow.

This inter-active Earth-Science program will focus on the 3 kinds of rocks and is highlighted by the opening of geodes Mr. Smith collected in underground mines in Mexico to reveal crystals inside.

• The high school has formed a partnership with Womansplace, through the Consortium for Public Education headquarted in McKeesport.

Facilitators from Womansplace will conduct a series of "Expect Respect" groups for students that will address topics such as: Developing group skills; choosing equality and respect; recognizing abusive relationships; and learning skills for healthy relationships.