Dozens plead to keep Vaughn Elem. open

STOCKTON, Ala. - The signs are hard to ignore in Stockton. Not just the poster signs hanging outside, but the ones inside the community center, where dozens pleaded to keep Vaughn Elementary open.

"Our kids are doing a good job at Vaughn," said one parent. "So, they need to stay right here."

However, parents aren't just concerned about this school closing, they're worried about how much time their kids will spend on the bus.

"70 miles a day? That's just too much driving for any kid, especially five and six-year-olds," said PTO President, Melissa Smith.

If the school closed the students would be taken by bus to Bay Minette.

The Baldwin County School Board says it's dealing with a $23 million budget shortfall and cuts need to happen. Plus, board members say it costs an extra $6,000 per student to run Vaughn compared to other schools in the county.

"We acknowledge the quality is wonderful," said Superintendent, Dr. Faron Hollinger. "The faculty is great. It just a case of a tough economic decision we have to make."

The school board says it would save roughly $1.5 million if Vaughn closed down. A final decision is expected April 23rd.