NLCS Board Approves Consolidation in Emotional Meeting

(BEDFORD) – In a 4 to 3 vote the North Lawrence Community School Board approved a consolidation plan during an emotional meeting on Monday night.

School board members Trent Todd, Kamal Girgis, Jeremy Gilbert, and Rusty Garrison voted in favor of the plan. School board members Scott Gillespie, Kirsten Collier, and Larry Arnold voted against the plan.

Karla Hudson cries after the board voted in favor to consolidate.

Many spoke against the consolidation before the vote. Once approved, the crowd became emotional by shedding tears and voicing concerns.

The final resolution for consolidation was read by Superintendent Ty Mungle.

“It is recommended the North Lawrence Community School Consolidation Plan start in the 2020-2021 school year. This plan includes redistricting to attend six elementary schools in grades K-6.

The meeting was well attended by members of the community.

“We will use the current Dollens, Needmore, Parkview Primary, Parkview Intermediate, Lincoln and Shawswick Elementary School and Oolitic and Bedford Middle School. Stalker will be repurposed to house the Early Learning Center, Joint Services and Gateway Academy.”

“I am requesting that legal counsel determine options for the disposition of the Fayetteville, Heltonville, and Springville Elementary facilities and property,” Dr. Ty Mungle concluded.

The final plan was approved in this evening’s North Lawrence Community Schools meeting.

The benefits of the NLCS Consolidation Plan will provide the following benefits:

  • Increased consistency in the core curriculum and extracurricular offerings at all elementary and middle schools.
  • Expanded student opportunities for enrichment and intervention in each of the schools.
  • Aligned teacher collaboration for professional learning.
  • Enhanced student support services.
  • Continued high-quality special education services.
Standing room only at North Lawrence Community Schools Administration Building