Oregon school leaders consider a reconfiguration plan - 13abc.com Toledo (OH) News, Weather and Sports

Oregon school district leaders are considering a plan that would reconfigure middle school classes.  Under this new plan, fifth graders would no longer attend their K-5 elementary schools.   All fifth and sixth graders would attend one school, and all seventh and eighth graders would attend another.  District leaders say this is a good move because it brings Oregon students together earlier.

"There has not been a decision made to this point," says Zalar.  "The board wants to get feedback from the community so they can make an informed decision going forward."

"The focus is on our kids and raising the bar and setting our standards a little higher," says Gary Thompson, a parent of three students in the district. "I think that makes a lot of sense"

District leaders hope to put the plans in place by the 2013-14 academic year.  Superintendent Mike Zalar says adopting this plan would make the transition to high school easier, balance class sizes and ensure each school is developmentally appropriate.

There are some drawbacks. The district would need more money to make it work, which could mean higher taxes for city residents. And more schools means more drive time for parents with more than one student in the district. But it's a sacrifice some are willing to make if it means better classes for their kids.

"I think if it's in the best interest of the student, you'll see parents working together to make that happen in the community," says Thompson.

District leaders want more community feedback, five other informational meetings are planned through October at various schools.  Those dates are listed below.

Coy Elementary: Tuesday, Oct. 2

Eisenhower Middle: Monday, Oct. 8

Fassett Middle: Thursday, Oct. 11

Starr Elementary: Monday, Oct. 15

Clay High: Wednesday, Oct. 24