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Adopt a Study to possibly consolidate Central Schools with Bloomsburg Schools, posted 12/19/11

by Central Columbia School District

At their meeting earlier this evening the Central Columbia School Board adopted a resolution to form a committee to study the financial impact of sharing services, facilities and possibly consolidating district operations with the Bloomsburg Area School District. The Bloomsburg School Board was also considering a similar resolution. The committee would be made up of 12 individuals; four School Board members, the superintendent and the business administrator from each district. The objective of the committee is to consider various service and facility options and report on the possible financial impact of those options. The report would be released to each School Board and the public by June 30, 2012
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It should be clear that this effort is only a study and only looks at financial considerations. After the study is completed, both School Boards can consider whether or not to engage in further discussions. A positive financial effect for the community’s taxpayers would be strongly considered as a prerequisite for further discussions—if sharing services does not save money, there would be little reason to do it. In addition, both School Boards would have to approve any further consideration; essentially meaning that both Boards have veto power.
Several factors brought about the study committee. First, school districts are faced with more and more financial challenges and mandates—to not consider all options to alleviate pressure on the taxpayer while still providing a quality education would be irresponsible. Second, the Central Columbia School Board has been considering renovations to a high school facility that is now 50 years old. Third, the recent severe flooding has caused the Bloomsburg community to reconsider the location of the district’s middle school, high school and athletic complex. With the School Boards in both districts considering facility questions, now is the perfect time to enter into this study. If either district proceeded to spend money on a major facilities project, the opportunity to consider a study would be lost. Finally, we must consider that shared resources would, hopefully, expand the opportunities for our students, as well as provide efficiencies in operations.

The study committee will be considering the use of an independent, third-party consultant to gather data for the report. The consultant would ensure a factual report and would not be skewed toward the interests of one group or another. Both Representative David Millard and Senator John Gordner have offered to use their positions to try to obtain state grant money to help fund the study.

Our community members should be aware that what is being discussed is rare for school districts in Pennsylvania. We recognize the local culture, values, ideals and school pride as positive emotions for our families and students. It is our hope that you recognize the spirit in which this study is being done.

The text of the resolution is below.
CENTRAL COLUMBIA SCHOOL DISTRICT
Bloomsburg/Central Columbia Study Committee Resolution 12-19-11
Recommendation: That the Board approve Resolution 12-19-11 forming a study committee with the Bloomsburg Area School District to study the financial impact of shared programs and/or facilities up to and including the consolidation of the school districts.
The committee will consist of four School Board members, business administrator, and the superintendent from each district. The four Board members representing Central Columbia will be: 1) Charles Chyko 2), Brian Klingerman, 3) Tom Markowski, and 4) Bruce Rhoads.
The study committee will issue a report to both School Boards and the public no later June 30, 2012 or as determined by the study consultant. The study will examine options from a financial perspective only. Based on the results of this study, the School Boards may choose to pursue further discussions.
Each district authorizes up to $12,500 to mutually support the study consultant firm. The Board understands that attempts will be made to defray possible expenses with state grants and will apply potential state grants to committee expenditures. This resolution authorizes the administration and School Boards of each district to supply relevant data to the study committee.
The study is for a preliminary investigation into financial feasibility of shared programs and/or facilities up to and including the consolidation of the school districts. By participating in this study, no decision or commitment has been made by either district. Final decisions to proceed on any option that affect both school districts will require the approval of both School Boards. Other options may be evaluated as deemed pertinent by the either school board.
DULY ADOPTED, by the Board of School Directors of Central Columbia School District, December 19, 2011. Central Columbia School District, Bloomsburg, PA. By: Charles C. Chyko. President, Board of School Directors.