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Judge Rules in Favor of Graves County Board of Education in Cuba Elementary Dispute

Paul Schaumburg

The Graves County Board of Education has won a lawsuit filed against them concerning Cuba Elementary School’s closure.

A group of residents within the school district, led by plaintiff Josh Cherry, brought suit in April and alleged that the board followed improper procedure throughout the closing process.

Cuba Elementary closed its doors last June.

Franklin County Circuit Court Judge Phillip Shepherd found that the Board acted in good faith and within their authority. He also said it adhered to procedures.

Plaintiff attorney Jim Deckard says the Board can’t legally sell Cuba Elementary property for thirty days, though that time can be extended.

One of the plaintiffs, William Bell, released a statement on the decision.

"I am encouraged by the fact that the judge called our concerns 'legitimate questions as to the procedure employed by the school board.' Now the focus is on the upcoming school board election. In speaking with the voters during my campaign, I have found the Cuba issue to be but one of many concerns our community has with the current board," Bell said.

"By continuing the injunction issued against the board this summer preventing them from selling Cuba Elementary, the judge is allowing the people of Graves County to voice their opinion on the matter by voting for changes to the board on November 4."

No one from Graves County Schools could comment over the phone.

View the ruling in its entirety below:

Cherry v. Graves County Board of Education

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