Board talks about redistricting IOW Schools

Published 9:28 am Wednesday, January 12, 2011

ISLE OF WIGHT—Redistricting could be on the way in Isle of Wight Schools, which means some students could be sent to different schools.

The topic came up during a recent School Board discussion of budget priorities for fiscal year 2012.

No decisions were made regarding possible redistricting, but several board members said it might need to be looked at during the budget process. Phillip Bradshaw, the division’s chief financial officer, told the board state funding cuts are likely, but “from the optimistic point of view” county funding could be level.

The board approved a list of budget priorities, including maintaining current staffing and competitive salaries, transportation and maintenance. T. Hayes Griffin, who represents the Windsor District on the board, said rezoning might be necessary to maintain all of the division’s staff positions.

“There is no way that this board can justify a teacher for six students,” he said. “So in order to keep the people, we’ve got to provide the students to those teachers.”

Dr. George Bradby, who represents the Newport District on the board, said the initial impact of redistricting “is not going to go over very well,” no matter how the board goes about it.

Board Chairman David Goodrich said redistricting isn’t easy for any school division, but it’s not uncommon.

“Some divisions redistrict routinely, which I hope we never have to do because it’s hard enough to do it once,” he said.