It’s understood that school divisions are trying to be as efficient as possible but sometimes saving money is not the be-all-and-end-all.
There is a concern that Chaplin School will be closed after its school of opportunity designation expires in 2012. However, as has been raised by Prairie South School Division board member Shawn Davidson, even if a school isn’t seen as economical, it’s sometimes necessary.
Davidson pointed out that due to other closures, the community has become somewhat isolated and a school is necessary for the area.
The people of Chaplin are trying to grow the community and this will help increase enrolment. However, closure of the school could have a devastating effect on Chaplin and the area as a whole.
For many, it won’t be as attractive to move there because of the lack of a school. As well, more kids will be spending more time on buses.
At the moment, it is just a kindergarten to Grade 8 school, but Davidson would like to see it restored to a kindergarten to Grade 12 school. This would increase enrolment and that would help reach a target enrolment goal the government has said the school must reach to retain the school of opportunity designation.
While a closure or keeping the school just for elementary students may be better for the division’s bottom line it may not be so good for the well-being of a community and that may be even more important to consider than money.
