While there may have been a tough unanimous vote earlier this school year by the Southwest Parke School Board to close Montezuma Elementary, by doing so, the district announced it is projected to save over a million dollars.
Earlier this month, Superintendent Dr. Phil Harrison shared with the board and those in attendance, the district is projected to save over $1.4 million by shuttering the school.
The majority of the savings comes from a reduction of staff, which saved over $1.2 million, as well as a reduction of cost to the tune of $363 thousand by not using the building any more.
The reduction of staff featured nine certified teachers, 11 non-certified staff, and six non-certified staff from the Operations Fund, for a total of 26 staff members who were part of the reduction in force implementation. Those who were part of the reduction in force program could be eligible for new positions if qualified, Harrison said.
By closing the school, the district no longer has to pay for insurance, mowing or operations costs.
In addition, there will be no summer school at Montezuma this year and transportation will be provided for any student in need.
Plans continue as to merging students from Montezuma Elementary and Rosedale and what that may look like. In addition, there is a movement by some parents to bring a charter school to the former Montezuma Elementary building.
Lawrence County arrests
Storm system rolls through southeastern Illinois and southwestern Indiana
New PIO officer announced for Indiana State Police Evansville District
Valentine seeks change of venue for murder trial
Indiana Gov. Braun declares state of disaster emergency for 63 Indiana counties
Newton power plant to be closed
Lawrence County Board approves public safety tax referendum
Library district in solid financial shape
U.S. 41 road project continues in Knox County
Richland County death investigation
Vantlin named Heeps of Jeeps First Responder of the Year
Vincennes University to upgrade Beckes Park
Lawrenceville sewage plant visited by U.S. EPA
Two dead after head-on collision in Crawford County
First-ever statewide digital library resource program available in Illinois
Knox County approving preliminary solar project resolution
St Francisville to contract out bridge repair work
