A one-year pilot program in USD 282 will keep taxes at roughly the same level as the current year but a major change is in the making for schools at Severy and Moline.

According to the plan, approved by the USD 282 Board of Education at its regular meeting on June 9, all students in grades 1-3 will attend Moline Elementary School and those in grades 4-6 will attend Severy Elementary School.

Kindergarten and preschool classes will continue in both Moline and Severy and both schools will keep their principal positions.

These changes will take effect immediately.

Supt. Bert Moore said the issue came to a head unexpectedly after four teachers announced their resignations at the close of the school year.

In a letter to West Elk patrons last week, the board asked for support and patience as the district enters a new design for the Moline and Severy elementary program.

Moore emphasized that this restructuring is a “pilot” program for a one-year period. This will enable the board to determine if a different option needs to be reviewed for future years.

The superintendent said he was aware that petitions are being drafted to oppose the board’s action. He hopes everyone can come together for an open discussion on the proposal when a public forum is held on July 10 at 7:30 p.m. in the West Elk Junior/Senior High School Auditorium.

Moore said it is important for everyone to keep an open mind on the elementary restructuring in times such as these.

He urged anyone with questions to contact him or any board member. He also encouraged everyone to attend the public forum meeting on July 10.

See more details in this week’s printed edition of the Flint Hills Express.

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