Options to keep Hodge open

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By Brooke Kelley - bio | email

SAVANNAH, GA (WTOC) - Is this the last year for Hodge or will the Savannah-Chatham school board keep it open?

The Savannah-Chatham school district decided years ago to close Hodge Elementary as part of the plan to rebuild a new Beach High School.

But once the announcement was made, parents weren't happy and are fighting to save it. Now, the superintendent is reconsidering the district's plan.

For nine years, principal Donna Myers has walked the halls of Hodge Elementary School. She would like to continue walking the halls for many more years to come and she just might get her wish.

Superintendent Dr. Thomas Lockamy is thinking about reconsidering the district's original plans to close the school.

"It says to the community and to the parents their concerns have been heard," said Myers.

One of the parents who caught the superintendent's ear was Oscar Carlers. He says this school is a crown jewel on the westside and a great foundation for his children and many others.

"It is critical that Hodge stay in this neighborhood because of the success of all the students," said Carlers.

There are several options that are on the table. One would be to change the adult learning center into Hodge Elementary School or add on the new DeRenne or include in Beach High a new plan.

The superintendent says he plans to make his decision sometime very soon.

"I though how do you close a neighborhood classic neighborhood school and then give a proposal to open neighborhood schools. I though what if I explore other options to keep hodge open," said Lockamy.

Regardless of what Lockamy decides, everyone now has a little more hope.

"Why change it, you shouldn't have to correct something that is working," said Carlers.

And as long as the students keep working hard, so will the parents and teachers to keep the doors open.

The superintendent will take his plan to the school board in the next few weeks.