Plant closing, tax loss leaves school district uncertain

CLARKSVILLE, Mo. -- The school district that serves Clarksville, Eolia and surrounding countryside enjoys low class size, a reputation for excellence and an impressive record of voter financial support.

But the Clopton Pike County school district is bracing itself for a half-million-dollar tax revenue loss when Holcim Inc. shuts down its cement plant north of Clarksville early next year.

The district stands to lose about a quarter of its local tax revenue. Superintendent Terry Robertson said he's looking at any and all revenue possibilities.

The district has a $5 million budget and employs about 55 teachers and 60 non-certified staff to educate 600 students in grades kindergarten through 12th grades from Clarksville, Eolia and the surrounding area.