By Sue Loughlin
TERRE HAUTE — Gibault, Inc. has asked the Vigo County School Corp. to sponsor a charter school, Summit Academy, which would be located on the Gibault campus.
On Monday, the Vigo County School Board will discuss Gibault’s request. Charles Rubright, an attorney with Bose, McKinney and Evans, will present information and findings related to the request.
Prior to the meeting, school district staff are expected to meet with Gibault representatives related to the proposal.
“I think it’s critical for us to be able to have a conversation” and ask questions about the proposal, said Dan Tanoos, VCSC superintendent. The meeting with Gibault officials will take place in the afternoon.
Gibault has cited state funding cuts as a reason it is pursuing the charter school, which would open up new funding opportunities, including state tuition support.
The Gibault proposal is listed on the agenda as a discussion item. “If asked, I would be willing to make my recommendation,” Tanoos said. He did not say what that recommendation would be.
The school district has been researching legal options with regard to Gibault’s request, which it received Dec. 17. By law, the district has 75 days to respond.
Jim Sinclair, Gibault’s chief executive officer, said, “We’re glad for the opportunity to sit down and talk about our proposal” Monday afternoon.
In other matters, the board will act on a recommendation to approve Martin-Riley architects/engineers for several 2010 capital projects that include roofing/masonry, track replacement and flooring replacement.
The board will meet at 7 p.m. in the administration building, 686 Wabash Ave.
Sue Loughlin can be reached at (812) 231-4235 or sue.loughlin@tribstar.com.
