The Charleston County School Board approved a plan to close five schools. Expected to save the district $5.3 million in the first year, the closures are part of a larger plan for cutting costs to address a more than $20 million budget crisis.
Officials first presented a plan with as many as a dozen schools threatened with potential closure, but was whittled to five schools targeted for unsatisfactory student performance, underutilized space, and high cost per student. The final plan will close McClellanville, Brentwood and Schroder middle schools, Fraser Elementary, and Charlestowne Academy.The schools were targeted due to their
“At the end of the day, we need to make sure we have provided the best education … for all of our children,” says board member Ruth Jordan. “It is not acceptable to have children in failing schools.”
Parents came out to ask the board to save their schools.
“You are not going to take Fraser,” said defiant Eastside resident Dorothy Smith. “Look at these children on the Eastside. Why are you going to make these students walk all the way down to Sanders Clyde. No, ma’am. No you’re not.”
Fraser students also spoke out, using familiar sayings like “Ready to rumble,” and “Yes, we can.”
Some community members came out in support of the plan. Anita Zucker, who has been a strong supporter of Charleston County schools.
“We’re living in times unlike any we’ve known in the lifetimes of most of us,” Zucker said. “We must use our resources wisely.”
Board member Chris Fraser said he supported the district proposal because of the considerations and public input used to determine the closing schools and the importance of bringing students into better programs.
“I would hope the people in the community hold us accountable that we did transfer their student to a better environment,” he said.
The district board also approved a four-day unpaid furlough for full-year staff (administrators, not teachers). It’s expected to give the district $600,000 in savings. Ray Toler opposed the measure.
Help keep the City Paper free.
No paywalls.
No subscription cost.
Free delivery at 800 locations.
Help support independent journalism by donating today.
