School board intends to explore modified Plan 2B: Lafayette and Central as two-high school model
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. (News-Press NOW) -- The St. Joseph School District Board of Education has opted to further explore a modified version of Plan 2B to shape the future of St. Joseph public schools, this coming after two high-profile board meetings this week.
Wednesday's meeting at the Troester Media Center comes after the previously-discussed Plan E was shelved during a Monday work session, with the board requesting more time to review facility details for Plan E, Plan 2B and Plan 7B.
In reviewing details of Plan 2B, the majority of the board decided that the two high school model was the best path and wanted to examine additional modifications made to Plan 2B (Lafayette/Central) over Plan 7B (Benton/Central).
Additionally the board wanted to look at the possibility of a four-middle school model and changing some of the feeder systems.
One parent present in the audience, Aaron Westlake, explained why it was important for him to speak to the board before they began discussions of which plan to hone on.
"I've spoken at a couple of these meetings now. I'm the parent of a child that goes to Bessie Ellison," Westlake said. "We found they are an absolutely amazing school, the sense of community there was stronger than I could have believed. I find it to be a school worth fighting for."
After the meeting, Board President LaTonya Williams felt she could take a "sigh of relief" with clarity and a sense of direction in place with Plan 2B moving ahead for further conversations. Williams explained that while people will be upset, a decision had to be made.
"I understand that it can be frustrating, but we had to make a decision. Williams said. "We had lots of people contact us, I received lots of emails and I read every one. But I'm not able to answer to everyone. I do apologize, but I need to listen to the people."
Williams then added that her family is among those who will be impacted by the choice to move forward with Plan 2B.
"I want for people to know I have a child in these schools. My kids and my organization are also in these schools," Williams said. "My own kid will be moving to a different high school. As a mother, I don't want that. As a president of this the board I have to make the right decision. And at times we have to make a good decision that isn't going to be the one that everyone likes. And that's okay."
A follow-up meeting is currently scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on Monday, Nov. 17, in the Troester Media Center located at 3401 Renick St.
