A group of parents in Timmonsville are asking an important question. Can their school district survive?
The district, Florence School District 4, announced this week it's cutting 19 jobs and firing three principals.
Jimmy Lee Hampton, Robert Lesesne, and Vernon Davis say their children's right to a quality education in theTimmonsville school district is at risk because the district is $700,000 in debt.
"We as parents, we're going to find a way for our voices to be heard one way or another," said Jimmy Hampton.
This year, the district has lost $400,000 in federal, state and local money because 270 students transferred out of the district. The students are gone for a variety of reasons like moving away, dropping out, or transferring to another district.
So, the district cut 19 jobs and combined classes and positions to make ends meet. In the past two years, the district has eliminated 44 positions because of financial struggles.
"What about next year? Will we have a school next year? Are we looking at more teacher cuts? Larger classroom sizes?" asked Lesesne.
The parents spent much of the week so far talking with their state legislators about the feasibility of Timmonsville schools consolidating with Florence School District One.
"At this present time, it's the right thing to do. We're in debt. We don't even know if we're gonna have a school next year," said Vernon Davis.
Timmonsville school superintendent Dr. Bertha McCants says next year will be tight, and she's not sure if there will be more cuts.
As far as consolidating with Florence District One, she says it's an option.
"I will not say I am against or for consolidation, but I am willing to do whatever is best for the the students in Florence County School District 4."
The parents are holding a community meeting Thursday night.
