Innlandet County Council to decide on school closures impacting multiple regions

The Innlandet County Council is set to make a crucial decision on October 23 regarding the proposal to close several schools in the region. The majority in the council, composed of the Labour Party, Conservative Party, and the Green Party, holds 30 of the 57 seats, and it only takes two defections to overturn the proposal. Seven parties with 22 representatives advocate for postponing the decision about the school structure.

The proposal from the county director includes closing schools in Skarnes, Dokka, Nordstumoen, Flisa, Dombås, and Lom, while relocating Sønsterud to Våler. The reasoning behind this proposal is to maintain economic stability and resources for all high schools in Innlandet.

Iselin Vistekleiven from the Labour Party, who represents Vågå, has faced increasing pressure as the lead on transportation for the region. A Facebook post against closing Lom High School has gained significant traction, prompting her to acknowledge public outrage and concern regarding the implications of the proposal.

Currently, negotiations are ongoing between the three majority parties. Vistekleiven clarified her stance, emphasizing the need for equitable, high-quality educational offerings across all areas of Innlandet.

In response, several parties, including the Centre Party and the Socialist Left Party, are pushing to delay the decision, citing a need for dialogue and submissions on alternate proposals. The final outcome remains uncertain as the parties deliberate to reach a solution that accommodates both community needs and fiscal responsibilities. The closures, slated to be implemented from the 2025/2026 school year, could significantly impact local educational frameworks and employment.