Gary Community School Corp. reaches financial stability, regains local control
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Indiana’s Distressed Unit Appeal Board (DUAB) has unanimously approved a resolution to dissolve state oversight of the Gary Community School Corp., effective July 1. This marks the end of the district’s seven-year designation as a distressed political subdivision.
Under Senate Enrolled Act 567, the school district was designated as a distressed unit due to an operating budget deficit that exceeded $20 million in 2017.
Currently, the school corporation has maintained a balanced budget for at least two years, created a five-year fiscal plan focused on financial sustainability and accumulated sufficient cash balances to withstand unexpected expenses.
Gov. Eric Holcomb said in a news release Friday that the financial independence of the district is proof that its leadership is committed to a better future.
“I want to extend my heartiest congratulations to the board members of DUAB, faculty, staff of the Gary Community School Corporation, families and finally all the community members of Gary that never gave up,” Gov. Eric Holcomb said in a news release “We have high expectations for our children to achieve their best and they in turn deserve ours. The success of the schools means the success of students.”
The approval comes three years after Gary Schools regained control of its special education services after eight years of operating under special conditions from the Indiana Department of Education.
“The state is pleased to pass the baton back to an accomplished local school board and an experienced superintendent,” DUAB Executive Director Peter Miller said. “They are well positioned for the future.”
Earlier this month, the district announced Dr. Yvonne Stokes as its new superintendent. Stokes, who will also begin her new role July 1, most recently served as superintendent Hamilton Southeastern Schools in Fishers.