Community Corner

District 113A Votes to Close Central School

7-0 vote to shutter school reflects intent for district-wide reorganization.

In a unanimous vote Monday night, the Board of Education approved the closing of for the 2011-2012 school year.

The district reorganization plan approved by board members will send all students in early childhood through second grade to Oakwood School, and all third- and fourth-grade students to River Valley School. All fifth-grade students will attend Old Quarry Middle School, along with students in sixth through eighth grade.

The decision is based on the district's need for a "sound long-range plan, fiscal responsibility, optimization of facilities and optimization of staffing resources," according to District 113A Supt. Tim Ricker.

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The closing of Central School will save approximately $356,747, according to district documents.

Central School Principal Gina Rodewald, who recently resigned to accept a principal position in Gower School District 62, told the board during last week's meeting that closing the school was in the best interest of the district.

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"We at Central School have been preparing for this for two years," she said. "I have been preparing my teachers for this, I have been preparing my parents for this and I have been preparing the students for this. We are ready.

"We know this is the what we at Central School can do to help this district recover."

After the vote Monday, Rodewald said she was saddened by the decision, even if it was the best option for the students of District 113A.

"I realize and appreciate what a difficult decision this was for the board," she said. "I would like to thank them for carefully considering the information that was presented to them in February and again on May 12.

"While the closing of Central School is very sad for 330 students and their families, it will make the situation better for current and future students of 113A."

Check Patch later for more details.


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