TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — The process for Vigo County School Corporation to consolidate will take place over the next several years, but right now, many local officials are already expressing their support for an oversight board.
Chair of the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce Board, Donald Scott, said action is needed right now.
“There’s a serious issue with the current state of our facilities in our school system”, Scott said. “If we can’t solve that, it impacts almost everyone in our community, including our businesses, our children.”
Scott said there are many misconceptions about the board. He said giving families all the necessary information will be the biggest advantage.
“The goal is to provide transparency, to look at all the different options and different funding sources that may be available”, Scott said. “To do this in a way that minimizes the impact on taxpayers.”
Scott said Terre Haute’s economy has felt the impacts, with a number of businesses turning the area down because of the schools.
“Our universities, our hospitals, and some of our large manufacturers will all tell you that when it comes to bringing in professional talent and their families, or wives, take a look at our school facilities, they decide to go elsewhere”, Scott said. “It’s very difficult to bring in that professional talent given the state of our schools.”
If this board does help Vigo County School Corporation, Scott said the economy will grow along with it.
“Ask your questions, find out what this is truly all about because I think if you do your homework, then you will decide with the children of our community and the potential growth of our community in backing this proposal”, Scott said.
The Vigo County Commissioners will present their idea for the oversight committee to the Vigo County Council on October 29th.
