The Warren County School Board voted 5-4 Monday, January 13th to approve a plan to close Sheffield and Youngsville high schools starting in the 2025 school year.

The decision, made during the board’s first meeting of the year, drew a standing-room-only crowd at the district’s central office.  
 
Under the plan, students in grades 9 through 12 from Sheffield will transfer to Warren High School, while Youngsville students in the same grades will attend Eisenhower High School.  
 
Superintendent Gary Weber said the decision was carefully considered and focused on expanding academic opportunities for students while addressing the district’s financial sustainability.  
 
“This wasn't a decision that we took lightly.  It has been under discussion for several years now," stated Weber. "We are doing this for the betterment of our students. We want to provide as much opportunity as we can for our kids.”   
 
The district says the move will allow for a wider range of academic programs, including more electives and career readiness courses, while reducing costs to improve financial stability.  
 
“This isn't about tearing down schools, this is about academics and ensuring all students have access to the courses they need and want,” Weber added. “At the same time, it helps us address the financial realities we’re facing as a district.”  
 
While some community members supported the plan’s focus on academic improvement, others expressed concerns during the meeting. 
 
"This is a bad decision, but there is still time to re-evaluate," said Zachary Sanford, Youngsville Social Studies teacher. "I think that the smartest move is to go back and revisit this, because there is still time. I don't know if they will, but I hope that they do."
 
Board members Cody Brown, Kevin Lindvay, Paul Mangione, Mary Passinger, and John Wortman voted in favor of the closures, while Savanna Cochran, Tammi Holden, Stephanie Snell, and Dan Sullivan voted against.  
 
The district plans to work on the logistics of the transition in the coming months, including transportation, staffing, and student support. Leaders say they are committed to engaging with the community and keeping everyone informed throughout the process.  
 
Additional meetings will be scheduled to provide updates and gather feedback from the community.