District leaders with Christian County Public Schools held the first of three community forums to present the possible consolidation plan of the two high schools and Gateway Academy.
Superintendent Chris Bentzel, Assistant Superintendent Josh Hunt, and Director of Instruction Jessica Addison presented the advantages that would come with the consolidation of the two high schools, which includes over 25% of the students in the district.
During the presentation, district leaders said some of the advantages would include utilizing the Academy Model to allow students to be placed into “Small Learning Communities” with groups of no more than 400 in each. They also estimate an operational cost savings of 20% or $2 million versus operating two separate campuses as well as an increase in extracurricular activities, co-curricular activities, and clubs.
After the nearly hour-long presentation of the advantages of consolidating the two high schools, several community members voiced their concerns and asked school leaders various questions ranging from academics and sports to safety and future student growth.
Glenda Hall, a former teacher and sports parent, said she had several concerns to start with when the process began, but after reading and listening to the presentation all of her concerns have been addressed and she supports the consolidation with the Academy Model.
Matt McGowan said he felt like the consolidation process was already a done deal and now the district is in damage control mode.
Carlos Wilson said his concern is safety and behavior issues, specifically among rival gang members at each of the high schools and then bringing them together under one roof.
Gwen Parker, another retired teacher, said she has big concerns about behavior issues and discipline, as well as taking the sports competition away from the students because Hopkinsville doesn’t have anything to offer them.
And Edward Lee Major, a 2018 Hopkinsville High School graduate, said this is not only about a new building but it’s about what is best for the students.
Christian Circuit Judge Andrew Self, and former HHS graduate, served as the moderator of the community forum that was held at the Christian County Middle School Performing Arts Center.
The next two community forums are scheduled on August 2nd at Crofton Elementary School and August 12th at South Christian Elementary School at 6:00 p.m.
You can watch the community forum in its entirety below:
