Local school officials are saying ‘thank you’ to local voters for their consideration about consolidation. Now—respective school boards have that task of finding new direction in dealing the many challenges school districts face today.

Tuesday’s Consolidated Election turned away a possible merger of the Unit 9 and Unit 249 school districts.

Unit 9 passed the measure while District #249 said No. Consolidation required passage in both districts.

The Unit 9 Board of Education thanks the communities of Watseka and Crescent City for actively considering consolidation as a means of facing challenges in both districts.

Unit 9 officials state the decision to bring the consolidation question to the ballot wasn’t taken lightly. The matter was appropriately placed in the hands of voters.

Difficult decisions were made, a lot of information had to be considered. The Unit 9 Board states ;it’s voters were open to consolidation talks in the need to face challenges to finding facilities solutions.

The Board further states, providing a high quality education that meets the needs of students has been, and will be, the motivation behind decisions the board makes. More research and finding alternatives will be on future agendas . Community input is always welcome.

Meanwhile ... C-I District 249 will remain committed to serving all students... moving forward, the 249 school board will continue to focus on what’s best for all students, including educational, physical, emotional and social benefits.

Sup’t Jeffrey Alstadt points out so many districts are struggling with declining enrollment, facility needs, and tax issues.

The 249 Board states the consolidation talk process brought strong reactions that’ve disrupted students, parents, community members and school staff. But now, Alstadt says it’s time to come together because students deserve the best opportunities that the board can provide.

Respective new school board members welcome community involvement.

94.1 WGFA