TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — Terre Haute Mayor Brandon Sakbun has voiced his support for the Vigo County School Corporation’s newly announced reorganization plan.
In a press release, Sakbun praised the plan as a “smart, data-driven, student-focused step towards strengthening both education and the broader Terre Haute community. “
“They have listened to the community, analyzed the data and brought forward a plan that prepares us for the future,” said Sakbun.
The Vigo County School Board approved the large-scale consolidation plan on Monday, June 23.
The plan calls for four elementary schools to be closed, the two high schools to be consolidated, and for the county to finish with 10 elementary schools, four middle schools, two high schools, two early learning centers, an alternative educational center, and a career technical education center. School officials said the plans will take three to seven years and are necessary because of population decline and funding issues.
“This plan is strategic, responsible, and what our community needs for our students now and in the future. Like many community members, I had some initial concerns, but I believe they have been thoughtfully addressed. The reality is that the school-age population in this community has decreased by almost 50% since the 1970s. The proposed plan keeps the teacher-to-student ratio the same, adds additional academic and extracurricular programs, and modernizes facilities. I am a proud graduate of Terre Haute South Vigo High School. While it pains me to see that the school I went to will change, I am excited to welcome new traditions. I ask residents to view the video and information provided by the Vigo County School Corporation, which provides information on funding and how legislation passed in 2009 is still creating challenges for this community’s school corporation.” Sakbun noted.
