All three approaches are used across the state. For example, Malvern and Nishna Valley came together to form East Mills, while Glenwood and Harlan both emphasize “Community” after their high school names. A joint school board meeting will be held March 17, which Ulrich said could see a decision made on the name. The choice carried political consequences, with voters needing to approve the proposed merger.

Ulrich said a vote is being targeted for Sept. 8, the last date in the year approved for school special elections. He said the districts have missed the deadline to have a vote scheduled in June. While the Walnut school district might exist as a stand-alone entity next year, he said the expectation is students will be attending AHSTW’s school in Avoca. That plan has already been communicated to the Walnut community.

Once voters approve the reorganization, the districts will come together, which will solve a looming problem for Walnut where the school district would eventually be spending too much according to state regulations. Plans are already underway for what happens following a reorganization, which includes a discussion between the Walnut school board and the City of Walnut about possible uses for the Walnut Community School building. Ulrich said no commitments have been made, but the ultimate decision will be made by Walnut officials alone, not by anyone from Avoca or elsewhere.