DeBary advocates call for new school partnership with Volusia County school board

In the heart of DeBary, Florida, a passionate advocate for the community's children stood before the City Council, urging immediate action to address a pressing issue: the lack of adequate educational facilities. As families flock to the city and neighborhoods expand, the demand for schools has surged, yet DeBary remains without the necessary infrastructure to support its growing population.

The speaker highlighted the ongoing struggle between the city and the Volusia County school system, emphasizing that the overcrowding in existing schools is not merely a statistic but a daily challenge faced by families. "Our current city comprehension plan outlines admirable goals for sustainable growth and quality of life," the advocate stated, "but until we act to bring a new school to DeBary, those goals remain just words on paper."

With a clear call to action, the advocate pointed to the Spring Vista site, which is already designated for public school use, as a prime location for a new educational facility. The plan encourages schools to be integrated into neighborhoods, serving as community hubs and connecting to pedestrian networks. "We cannot claim to support families or invest in our future if we fail to provide adequate educational facilities for our youth," the speaker asserted, framing the issue as a moral imperative that transcends the responsibilities of the school board alone.

The advocate's plea resonated with the council, reminding them of their commitment to ensuring the availability of public school facilities in line with the city's growth. "Our children deserve nothing less," the speaker concluded, leaving the council with a poignant reminder of the urgent need for collaboration and leadership in securing a brighter future for DeBary's youth.

As the meeting continued, council member Sowell raised questions, hinting at the complexities of the discussions ahead. The path to a new school in DeBary may be fraught with challenges, but the community's commitment to its children remains unwavering.