FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 
June 30, 2025 

Mayor Sakbun Applauds Vigo County School Corporation’s Reorganization Plan 

TERRE HAUTE, Indiana - Mayor Brandon Sakbun is voicing support for the Vigo County School Corporation’s newly announced reorganization plan, praising it as a smart, data-driven, student-focused step toward strengthening both education and the broader Terre Haute community. 

Mayor Sakbun commends the School Corporation for its transparent and deliberate leadership, noting that the plan is shaped by thorough community input, thoughtful data analysis, and a forward-looking commitment to student success. 

“They’ve listened to the community, analyzed the data, and brought forward a plan that prepares us for the future,” said Mayor Sakbun. 

He emphasizes that the quality of local schools plays a key role in shaping Terre Haute’s economic development, workforce readiness, and long-term growth. Terre Haute is already benefiting from outstanding educators and strong academic programs; the facilities must match that excellence to meet modern expectations and ensure continued progress. 

The City of Terre Haute stands ready to support the plan through infrastructure alignment, planning partnerships, and public collaboration. Mayor Sakbun characterizes this as an opportunity to make long-term investments that benefit not only today’s students but also future generations. 

Recognizing this as a broader community responsibility, the mayor stresses that cities across Indiana are grappling with shifts in population, funding structures, and facility needs. Building schools that align with our current population and welcome future growth ensures students are equipped for success in a changing world. The mayor emphasizes that decisions must be made proactively, before urgency limits choices or delays progress. 

“This plan is strategic, responsible, and what our community needs for our students now and in the future. Like many community members, I had some initial concerns, but I believe they have been thoughtfully addressed. The reality is that the school-age population in this community has decreased by almost 50% since the 1970s. The proposed plan keeps the teacher-to-student ratio the same, adds additional academic and extracurricular programs, and modernizes facilities. I am a proud graduate of Terre Haute South Vigo High School. While it pains me to see that the school I went to will change, I am excited to welcome new traditions. I ask residents to view the video and information provided by the Vigo County School Corporation, which provides information on funding and how legislation passed in 2009 is still creating challenges for this community’s school corporation.”  Sakbun noted. 

Finally, Mayor Sakbun expresses his full confidence in Superintendent Dr. Chris Himsel and the School Board, citing their strategic vision and open communication. He asks all residents including families, educators, business leaders, and elected officials to come together in support of the plan and the brighter future it aims to build. 

###