Board approves moving third grade to Markham Newton after debate over timing and staffing

The Lake County Schools Board voted Jan. 12 to move third grade to Markham Newton Elementary School, approving a motion made by Vivian and seconded by Jody.

The proposal produced extended debate. Some board members and administrators urged postponing action until new district leadership was in place to shepherd the transition, citing the risk that teachers might seek other positions if the move is delayed. One board member warned, “If we wait till April to do this and that happens, I mean, they decide they wanna move...,” reflecting concerns about staffing continuity.

Supporters argued the move is in students’ instructional interest because third grade would benefit from the K–2 supports and resources already in place at the K–2 campus. Proponents emphasized continuity for students and pointed to classroom resources and CTE alignment elsewhere in the district.

After discussion, the board approved the motion by roll call; the transcript records five yeses and two noes. The board directed the superintendent and human resources to develop a transition plan and to report progress at an upcoming meeting so teacher assignments, routing, testing implications and lunch/testing logistics can be addressed before the change is implemented.

The board’s implementation directions included preparing staff notifications and working through state testing and labeling requirements tied to school-grade configurations.