LEXINGTON (WACH) -- WACH Fox News is tracking transparency as the school year is set to begin all across the Midlands. School districts are dealing with budget cuts, teacher layoffs, and furloughs to save money and that's why one item is getting the attention of some Midlands educators.
Tuesday was the first day of orientation for new teachers in Lexington School District One and they were greeted by a brand new electronic sign outside Lexington High School.
A concerned teacher contacted us and said some of his colleagues want to know where the district came up with the cash for that sign after more than 50 people were laid off, salaries are being frozen and teachers are required to take a mandatory furlough day on Wednesday.
"No taxpayer money was used," said district spokeswoman Mary Beth Hill.
Hill said Lexington High School has been saving up for the $16,000 sign for more than five years. They paid for it with money earned through parking lot fees and canteen or concession fees from school activities.
In the past, Lexington High School administrators have used those same pots of money to buy computers and school supplies and have even sent teachers to conferences as well.
Lexington High officials are optimistic the easy-to-change electronic messages on the sign will help them communicate better with the community.
"They are looking forward to putting messages out there and being better able to communicate, more specifically and in a more timely manner," said Hill.
Hill said the district tried to communicate with employees about the sign's funding, but understands some people may not have gotten the message.
What do you think of the new $16,000 sign in front of Lexington High School? Vote in the web poll below and leave a comment.
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