Washington County VA residents speak out against school consolidation

Thursday night, dozens of Washington County residents spoke out against the potential consolidation of Holston High School and Patrick Henry High School. Washington County Public Schools is considering consolidating Patrick Henry and Holston High Schools alongside a 1% sales tax referendum. Everyone who took the podium spoke against consolidation, including former school superintendent Jim Sullivan. Damascus Mayor Katie Lamb also spoke out against potential consolidation, saying she has had a lack of communication. If a 1% sales tax increase were implemented, the expected $200 million in revenue would go toward a new school. Damascus residents believe that shutting down Holston High School would cost the county more money. The next school board meeting will be on Tuesday, Sept. 8, at 6 p.m.