Posted by Sara Niklas

"Consolidation" is a word heard often these days on the Iron Range.
While some welcome it, others are weary of it.

St. Louis County School District 2142 says that without consolidating schools, the district will disappear.

The economy has affected more than the mining industry on the Iron Range.
The St. Louis County School District 2142 says it can't afford to keep operating the way it is now.

The district currently maintains seven school buildings with dwindling enrollment.

"One thing we have noticed is students leave in grades nine through 12 by our survey, and the primary reason for leaving is because of lack of education opportunities. So by having a little larger school, they're still small, by having a two-sections school we can offer more classes," said Superintendent Dr. Charles Rick.

The proposed referendum would close the Cook, Cotton, Orr and Albrook schools, make Tower School pre–k through 6 and build two new schools that would serve several communities.

Residents in Tower and other towns have expressed their disapproval of closing schools, but Rick says whether the referendum passes or not, some schools will inevitably close.

"Our revenues are becoming less and our expenses continue to rise so we can't continue to have expenses exceed revenues," Rick said.

"If we get shuffled into other school districts it's going to be higher. You can guarantee that these other school districts aren't going to be able to handle all the extra kids. And before a year or two they're going to be passing their own referendums," said parent Darcie Novak.

"I have a feeling that one way or another I'm going to be going to a different school so I'm kind of preparing for it," said Cook student Tyler Lossing.

If the referendum doesn't pass, a dissolution of schools would begin.

Rick recognizes that the reorganization of schools is an emotional issue for many around the Iron Range.

"Things are changing and I think our district's trying to be out in front of it, be proactive, and at the same time we want to work with all the people adjusting to the changes and make it as less stressful as we can, but it is stressful, but change is coming and we have to be able to deal with it," Rick said.

The school district will host public meetings this week to provide more information.

The Iron Range Youth in Action group will hold a rally to save the school district tomorrow at Clinton Town Hall.