Meeting is a special session, the Northland Pines board of education unanimously approved , 6-0, restructuring grades 7-12 for the high school facilities starting with the 2017-18 school year.
A year ago the board narrowly defeated this proposal on a 4-3 vote, with the major objections being moving too fast and mingling 12 and 13 year old kids with 17 and 18 year old kids. That mingling remained the major obstacle expressed by a number of parents who addressed the board.
“I can't believe we're here on this same issue,” Jim Bonson said. “I don't want kids mixing with older students.”
Others also expressed the same concern, reminding the board they received a petition with 1,121 signatures opposed last year. Yet district administrative staff supported the proposal as a benefit for students especially with the implementation held off until the 17-18 school year that would provide adequate time to prepare and do it the right way.
Board members also supported the proposal with Holly McCormack indicating “the focus has been on older kids being a negative role model but I think they can also be a positive influence.”
Board president Jim Mulleady had faith in staff to do the right thing but cautioned that “we have to give those against assurances and prove to them we can make a smooth transition.”
Board member Eric Neff was absent due to illness.
