Benton Harbor elementary school likely to close at end of school year

by Sarah Rice (srice@wsbt.com)

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Fair Plain Northeast Elementary School in Benton Harbor

Fair Plain Northeast Elementary School in Benton Harbor could be shut down at the end of the school year because of declining student enrollment and a multi-million dollar budget deficit. (WSBT photo)

By WSBT News1

Story Created: Feb 5, 2009 at 4:04 PM EST

Story Updated: Feb 5, 2009 at 5:45 PM EST

BENTON HARBOR — The Benton Harbor School District could shut down Fair Plain Northeast Elementary School at the end of the school year. The superintendent says declining student enrollment and a multi-million dollar budget deficit are to blame.

The district chose this school because it's the smallest building. It has 162 students and 11 teachers. But no matter the reason, it's a decision some say is disappointing.

Musetta Hilliard enjoys looking out her front window every day.

"Well, I just like seeing the children walk there. And I speak to them, I talk them and say, 'How was school today?'" said Hilliard.

Hilliard lives just steps away from Fair Plain Northeast Elementary. To her, it's more than just a school.

"I used to work with the Girl Scouts up there. I worked with the PTA, and then the lunch room program for the children when they were going there," said Hilliard.

But the school's days may be numbered as officials look to close it at the end of the year. Superintendent Carole Schmidt says it would help make up the district's $7 million budget deficit, saving a half-million dollars each year.

"So as that continues to mount up our deficit elimination plan requires us to by 2013 have a balanced budget," said Schmidt.

Declining student enrollment is also a factor. In September 2002, 5,400 students were enrolled in the district. That number dropped to 3,700 in 2008. Schmidt says the economy has played a significant role.

"The problem is exacerbated in Berrien County because of our loss of jobs and our unemployment rate. And even further in the state of Michigan where our unemployment rate is much higher than any other state," said Schmidt.

Tough times that could soon take away Hilliard's favorite part of the day, turning those days into memories, too.

"So I just remember so many things that they were doing there. And it was one of the well-known schools to go to," said Hilliard.

The school board is expected to vote on the issue Tuesday. A public hearing will be held at Fair Plain Northeast Elementary Monday.

The students will be assigned to one of three schools in the district by the end of the year. The teachers will also be assigned to other schools.

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