The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Merrill Foto News, its publishers, Editor, or staff.
To the Editor:
Save Jefferson School
We have concerns with closing Jefferson School. We met with Superintendent Sample and were told the closing was a financial decision and best for students. In the April 29th Foto News, the Superintendent states “considering the consolidation of the district outline in the MAPS Strategic Plan and with the confirmed detachment of Maple Grove, effective July 1, 2021, MAPS will be able to reallocate an estimated $1.17 million to the much-needed classroom efforts in literacy and math skills, in addition to keeping our remaining facilities in top condition.”
We were told closing Jefferson would save the district $700,000 which is a 1.6% savings. MAPS operating budget for the 2020/2021 school year was $44,340,000. MAPS also received ESSER 11 and 111 COVID Funds for over $4 million. Two Central Office positions are being eliminated. Why weren’t these positions eliminated before deciding to close schools? Additional costs to closing Jefferson are moving furniture, bussing, remodeling Washington, Kate, and PRMS. Is it really a good idea to send 5th graders to PRMS with 8th graders and spend $80,000 on playground equipment.
The Maple Grove Charter School contract would have ended June, 2022. The decision to detach a year early will now cost the district $250,000 in attorney fees.
How much are we saving by closing Jefferson? Why send Jefferson students to other schools and leave the beautiful school campus vacant for years until the administration reveals their next decision? Is this move really best for the children? We don’t think so.
– Carol Krause, Carol Ellenbecker, Jackie Ackley, Cyndi Timm, and Linda Hass
Merrill, Wis.
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