Board OKs Merger of "Distressed" Schools
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Updated: April 17, 2007
The vote came in a two-hour meeting that focused on the financially-distressed districts. It would be a voluntary merger, although both districts are classified as fiscally distressed. Dollarway`s cash flow is positive and it`s felt the two would make a greater whole.
Assistant Education Commissioner Bobbie Davis said both districts are in their first year of distress, with Altheimer`s negative balance of $27,000 at the end of June. She estimated that the shortfall could reach a quarter-million dollars if the merger action wasn`t accomplished.
Under the merger, Altheimer students in grades pre-K-5 will go to the Altheimer-Sherril High School building. The rest will be bused to Dollarway. Buses will remain at the Altheimer district for transporting students.
Both districts are reportedly taking new steps to halt the loss of funds and a millage increase is to be presented to voters later this year.
Some parents, however, say they may file a lawsuit to halt the merger, claiming the busing will have a negative impact on students.
(Copyright 2006 Newsroom Solutions, LLC)
