Brownsburg's Challenger Learning Center to close

BROWNSBURG, Ind. (WISH) - Brownsburg's Challenger Learning Center will close at the end of the 2012-2013 school year, the Brownsburg Community School Corporation announced Monday.

According to a news release, the CLC has battled a shrinking budget since 2002 and has incurred $2.4 million worth of debt. The school corporation attempted to reduce costs, staffing and salaries. Student registration fees have also continued to climb.

The debt does not include licensing fees and utilities to operate the facility.

 Supt. Dr. Jim Snapp says, "It is essential that funds be directed into the classroom for Brownsburg students.  The school corporation could no longer afford to subsidize the education of students from other districts by filling the gap in revenue for the Challenger Learning Center.  This difficult decision will end a long standing program; however, it will strengthen services to our students in our schools."

Officials say permanent staff at the CLC will have positions available to them with Brownsburg schools if they choose to take them.