Pinellas School Board approves Tarpon Springs school consolidation plans after lengthy debate and criticism

Parents, students, staff and community members packed the Pinellas County School Board meeting Tuesday night as board members debated a controversial school consolidation proposal that has divided the Tarpon Springs community.The discussion centered on changes affecting Tarpon Springs Fundamental Elementary, Sunset Hills Elementary and Tarpon Springs Middle School. More than 60 speakers addressed the board, with some supporting the plan and others urging officials to reconsider.Ultimately, the board approved the proposal. Students also shared their concerns about the impact the changes could have on their schools.It makes me really sad to think that I might not have my last year here, one student told the board. Others encouraged board members to move forward with the proposal.The approved plan would create a K-8 Fundamental school on the Sunset Hills Elementary campus and combine Sunset Hills Elementary and Tarpon Springs Middle School into a new K-8 school located on the current Midd