Mount Vernon families express concerns, frustrations as school district discusses potentially closing 3 schools
There is a growing and fierce demand for answers from families who have children in the Mount Vernon City School District. It's over the potential closure of three schools.
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There is a growing and fierce demand for answers from families who have children in the Mount Vernon City School District.
Families within the district say they are angry, frustrated and confused.
"My question is, why do I have to suffer because of your consequences," asked a student in the Mount Vernon City School District during a meeting Friday.
It's over the potential closure of three schools in the district. Those are Cecil H. Parker School, Mount Vernon Honor Academy and Mount Vernon Leadership Academy.
"We looked at the low enrollment in the building, how much it would cost to rehab the building and whether or not there were other schools around we could transfer students to," says the acting superintendent with the Mount Vernon City School District, Dr. Veronica Smith.
Dr. Smith says their fiscal challenges are severe.
Families in the school district are not happy. They expressed their concerns during a meeting with school district leaders Friday evening.
Dominique Williams' daughter goes to one of the schools that could potentially close. Right now, it's only a two block walk from their home.
"She actually cried the other day because she's going to miss her friends. We are just all shocked," says Williams.
Dr. Smith says a decision hasn't been made yet but the school board will need to narrow down on one soon.
"I don't know how this is going to go," Williams explains.
There are two options on the table if the schools do need to close.
You can read about them here.
School leaders say they understand this is a very difficult time for families in the district.
"This change is vital to our district’s future. If we do not make a change, we will quickly fall into a catastrophic financial situation. These closures represent a long-term fix, ensuring the viability of our district for our students and avoiding further budgetary constraints," said the district in a statement released on Dec. 2.
