OBSERVER Staff Report
New York state Sen. Catharine Young said Thursday she is currently working to draft legislation that would allow for regional high schools.
Young, in a telephone call to the OBSERVER, says the legislation is in response to the local interest she has heard from school districts in Chautauqua County as well as those in Cattaraugus and Allegany counties.
"There seems to be statewide interest," she said. "This is a really good option that would offer more educational opportunities for students."
As part of the legislation, there are likely to be two options for governance of the regional high school. One option is for a host school while the other is to have the Board of Cooperative Educational Services be in charge.
"It would be a local decision," Young said.
In Chautauqua County, four districts are currently discussing shared services as well as a regional high school approach. Those districts include Brocton, Chautauqua Lake, Ripley and Westfield.
"We're excited about the opportunities or possibilities that could exist," said Brocton Superintendent John Hertlein. "Our students need more educational opportunities at a more affordable cost."
News of the legislation comes just under one week before school budget votes take place. Many voters will head to the polls on Tuesday in their districts.
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