Lawmakers heard from supporters and opponents of a bill that would consolidate school districts. The bill would set a minimum size for districts, and those that are too small would merge. The goal is combining administrations to create more efficient organizations. Republican Representative John Bradford told skeptics of the bill that it wouldn’t result in schools closing.
“Nothing’s going to change. Their children are going to get up in the morning, ride the same school bus to the same school, be taught by the same teacher,” said Bradford.
But education advocates and school district officials weren’t convinced. They shared concerns that as district borders are erased, schools will be consolidated and close.