INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. -- The Lawrence Township School Board is considering making significant changes to save money, and that isn't sitting well with some parents.

The school system faces a $3.2 million deficit next year. Closing Craig Middle School would get the district back on budget, but parents aren't happy with it, 6News' Tanya Spencer reported.

The money-saving plan was outlined in front of a standing-room-only crowd at the school board meeting Monday night.

The proposal would send all Craig sixth-graders back to elementary schools and move the seventh- and eighth-graders to the two remaining middle schools, Belzer and Fall Creek Valley.

"It sounds like in some respect there is a plan, but there's no details in the plan we're hearing tonight," one father told the board, causing the audience to applaud loudly.

About 60 parents signed up to speak to the board. Some were concerned the changes could significantly hurt music programs and athletics, and cramp elementary schools.

Many worried about significant staff cuts that would come along with closing Craig -- 25 full-time teachers and several dozen other staff members.

"I understand there's a budget issue at hand, but I'm not thinking they've really completely thought through everything," one mother said.

The board's financial officer said the school district is in dire straights. Closing Craig Middle School would save an estimated $3.6 million and put the district back on budget.

It would also save an estimated $4.8 million in renovations needed at Craig that would no longer have to be done.

Some parents agreed that, although a tough pill to swallow, the presented plan is the best option.

Others believe the money should be saved by cutting elsewhere, possibly administrative staff or salaries.

"I think that the priority is on saving money and not on the children," said one mother.

The school board is planning two public forums on the issue on Dec. 3 and 8. The proposal could be voted on at the board’s Dec. 14 meeting.