2 western South Dakota schools to close next year

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SIOUX FALLS (AP) — The school board in western South Dakota's Custer County has voted to close two schools, while in the eastern city of Sioux Falls hundreds of people have signed petitions or written to the school board objecting to plans to consolidate schools.

The media reports that the Custer County School Board voted 4-3 to close the Spring Creek and Fairburn schools after this school year. Supporters say it will save the county about $130,000 annually, but opponents say it'll mean longer commutes for some students to Hermosa and Custer. Board member Larry Vickers resigned and left the meeting following the Monday night vote.

In Sioux Falls, the media reports that officials propose to consolidate three elementary schools into one to save money. The school board is to vote Nov. 26.

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