Bill to Give BSU Muncie School Control Set For Full House
(Image courtesy of the State of Indiana.)
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As a subscriber you can listen to articles at work, in the car, or while you work out. Subscribe NowA bill that includes provisions to allow Ball State University to take over management of Muncie Community Schools has moved on to the Indiana House. House Bill 1315, authored by House Ways and Means Chair Tim Brown (R-41), calls for launching a new, seven-member board to govern MCS during what Ball State President Geoffrey Means says is an "important, historic opportunity" for the university, district and city.
In a statement following Wednesday’s approval in the Ways and Means Committee, Mearns said:
While I recognize a lot of work lies ahead in helping MCS thrive academically and financially, this legislation is an important step forward in creating a structure that is necessary for MCS and the community to be successful.
It is important to remember that the responsibility to transform MCS is about the children of Muncie – our children. And, the future of Muncie is dependent on the quality of our public schools. We look forward to working in collaboration with MCS teachers, students, families and every member of the community who wants to partner with us on this important, historic opportunity.
The amendment was announced last week and The Star Press reports it caught many high-ranking officials at the city and state level off guard. The university has created a website designed to provide information about the proposal. If approved, five members of the board would be appointed by Ball State’s Board of Trustees, one would be appointed by the mayor and one would be appointed by City Council.