Jackson R-2 School District to close Millersville, Gordonville elementary schools

GORDONVILLE, Mo. (KBSI) – Jackson R-2 School District leaders sent a letter to parents of Millersville and Gordonville elementary schools that the schools will close.

“With this closure, there will be no staff fired, ok. So, all staff will retain their jobs, but all staff will be in a different position,” according to Superintendent Dr. Scott Smith.

Katie Schaal is a parent within the district, and an advocate for Proposition T, who says it is heartbreaking and will have a huge impact on the Gordonville area.

“I’m just devastated because if this is just the beginning of cuts- I don’t think people understand how this is going to impact the community. People move here for the school system. And this huge of a cut, Millersville and Gordonville is just the beginning,” said Schaal.

Bus routes for those students will remain the same, and parents can only hope no other closures will affect the district.

Dear Millersville and Gordonville families,

You may be aware that Proposition T failed last week along with Propositions I + N last school year. As mentioned previously, major adjustments within the district would have to be considered without the passage of those propositions in order to meet financial obligations. The difficult decision has been made to consolidate elementary schools, closing Millersville and Gordonville Elementary Schools.

Starting in the 2024-2025 school year, students that attend Millersville Elementary currently will attend West Lane Elementary and students that attend Gordonville Elementary currently will attend South Elementary. As you know, students already transition to those buildings after second grade. Students are familiar with those respective schools, and we hope this will make the transition easier for all involved. Teachers and staff members at Millersville and Gordonville will be given the opportunity to work in town at another elementary school.

While we know that change is never easy, we will work together with you and your student to make this transition as smooth as possible. Our buildings will host open houses and back to school events at West Lane and South to familiarize you and your student to the building. We will also work with the current staff at Millersville and Gordonville to make sure the process meets the needs of your students.

Millersville and Gordonville have a sentimental part of history in the Jackson R-2 School District. We assure you that this decision was not made lightly as we know the importance of a local school in the neighborhood where people live. However, with each building having an average of 39 students, we feel that we can accommodate the needs of these students in town and help with cost saving measures while providing the quality education every student deserves.

Please don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions.

Sincerely,

Dr. Scott Smith, Superintendent

Ms. Shanna Wilson, Millersville Principal and West Lane Assistant Principal

Mrs. Shauna Criddle, Gordonville Principal and East Elementary Assistant Principal