White Co BOE Chair Wants Solution On Central View Over Next Year

Newly appointed White County School Board Chair Bob Young said finding a solution to the Central View School should be a board priority.

The issue of the vacant school came up again Thursday night at the monthly White County School Board meeting. Young said the task should be something the board addresses within the next year.

“We need to consider what do we do with a vacant facility that we have possession of,” Young said. “Out of respect to that community not let that sit there and deteriorate.”

Board Member Diane Haston started the conversation Thursday night by recommending selling the building. Haston said the building has been empty for five years and a decision needs to be made.

“Ever since I have been on this board I feel like we have been saying the same thing,” Haston said. “We’re just kicking the can down the road. If there is no growth that is going to be able to substantiate that financial decision to reopen it, then what are we doing?”

School Board Member Dewayne Howard said he advised against selling the building. Howard said the Central View community is growing and one day may need a school in the future.

“I would encourage the board to err on the side of caution here,” Howard said. “As you have seen, the community is not settling down. They are motivated now and educated now. I’m convinced the community down there is going to get their school back. If for example you do sell this, I think they’ll blame the board. Secondly, when they come to get their school back again, what would it cost to build another?”

Director of Schools Kurt Dronebarger reemphasized that the current logistics and reoccurring costs of operating a school in Central View does not make sense.  Board Chair Bob Young then asked for more opinions from the board. School Board Member Jayson McDonald said he would like to see the building repurposed. Young said partnering with the county to use the building for a parks and recreation remains an option.

In other business, the school board elected Member Bob Young as the new chairman. He replaces Member Jayson McDonald who served as chair for six year.

McDonald said it was time for a new face to serve in the position, so he removed his name from consideration. Jayson McDonald was then elected to serve as vice-chair of the Board.