An overwhelming majority of Thames Valley School Board trustees have voted in favour of keeping the New Sarum and Springfield elementary schools open.

Trustees voted in May 2017 to close the schools, contingent on funding from the province for the construction of two new public schools in the region.

Trustees voted to shutter Sparta and New Sarum schools in St. Thomas, South Dorchester in Belmont, Springfield P.S. in Springfield, and Westminster Central P.S. south London.

Concerned community and school officials attended the Thames Valley District School Board meeting Tuesday night to voice their opposition to the proposed closure of five rural schools.

Parents and community members filled the gallery of the Thames Valley District School Board meeting Tuesday night for a special meeting to review a report recommending several rural school closures.