Video: Starkville, Oktibbeha County School Districts Starting to Merge

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STARKVILLE, Miss. (WCBI) — The school consolidation between Starkville and Oktibbeha County School Districts has been a difficult transition for some, but one principle wants to get a head start on bringing the districts together.

Parents in the Oktibbeha County School District are starting to meet the teachers and administrators their children will see next school year when the merger with Starkville takes place.

“It’s kind of nervous like. I’m just that’s why I’m here attending a meeting to see what’s what. Questions be answered,” says Vicki Brown.

One major concern for parent Vicki Brown is transportation.

The Starkville School District hopes events like a pep rally and open house will help ease her fears, along with other parents.

Brown also wants to know what her child will learn in the classroom.

“Looking for better learning better teaching. Just looking for my child to get a better education,” says Brown.

Unlike his mother, Willie Parks is not as nervous about his 7th grade year.

“I think it’s a good idea because I really never been to Starkville school before,” says Willi Parks.

Armstrong Middle School Principal, Timothy Bourne is hoping events like this will create unity with the two districts and ease concerns about the future.

“We’re declaring that it’s one district, one school, one spark. That we are better together. That where there is unity there is strength so we truly believe that when these two school districts come together and one new school district is formed that we are going to be stronger and better than ever,” says Timothy Bourne.

Another impact of the merger will be jobs. Right now, Starkville Schools Superintendent Lewis Holloway says 12  teachers from the county are expected to be transferred to the city. However, that will leave 23 teachers looking for a job.

Other than Thursday night’s pep rally, three events planned in January for middle and high school students.

Educators will also be available to answer questions from parents.

Categories: Local News

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