Lockport plans to close two schools

LOCKPORT, N.Y. (WIVB) - The state budget crunch is forcing school districts to take a hard look at the numbers. The new bottom line may dictate school closings.

Parents like Alan Pichey wore their t-shirts to show why they came to Wednesday night's School Board meeting in Lockport.

Pichey said, "It seems like the elected officials are running things pretty backwards and I don't understand why they have to close these schools."

Once in the high school auditorium, it didn't take long to hear the outrage. The School District plans to close two elementary schools, John Pound and DeWitt Clinton, and place those students in nearby schools.

"I know that you claim you're going to move them to the one closest to them, but they're still not going to be able to walk there," said one parent.

Another parent commented, "I want to know that taking these children are going to be taken care of."

Superintendent Terry Carbone said a $7.9 million deficit leaves the district no choice. Other cuts include 23 layoffs, no more summer school, summer reading programs, after school programs, and fewer school supplies.

"We do not take this lightly. This is very serious negotiations. Very serious decisions and it weighs heavy, personally, on my heart," said Carbone.

A parent said, "I feel they are devastating and ultimately destructive."

Despite the outrage, the district's plan does have a few supporters.

"You have to do what you have to do. Make the necessary cuts," said Jack Smith.

The district says closing the two schools would save $1.2 million. There are still five weeks left before this becomes an official part of the school budget, but as of now it looks as though it's going to go into effect in September.