LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Parents upset with the way the Nelson County Schools' Board of Education is running things in the district packed a courtroom for a status hearing Friday.

Judge Mark Thurmond from Simpson County said he appreciates the community's interest in education and showing up at court, but urged civility, saying without that, meetings can't be productive, citing a recent board meeting that ended early amid a heated discussion over school mergers.

He thanked those in attendance Friday for civil behavior in the courtroom. 

About 50 people, including around one dozen school-aged children, filled the courtroom. Thurmond did not allow video cameras during the proceedings.  

Last month, in a divided 3-2 vote, the school board approved a plan to merge Boston Middle School and New Haven Middle School with Old Kentucky Home Middle School, citing low enrollment at the schools. The merger is part of Nelson County's Connected Campus Plan to consolidate schools and reallocate resources. It's the same plan that calls for merging Thomas Nelson High School into Nelson County High School.

Jeff Parrish, a parent of five who attended the court proceedings Friday, said he feels like he's being left in the dark.

"I think I’m less concerned about this court case," Parrish said. "My concern is finding out answers from our school board and being in the light."

Friday's hearing focused primarily on records requests from Board members, and whether the court can keep the Board from taking steps to remove the district's superintendent, Wes Bradley.

Ultimately, the motion for a temporary injunction was denied. WDRB News covered the special board meeting recently, where dozens of community members showed up with signs in support for Bradley to stay. No action was taken at that meeting.

Discussions about merging schools in the district have been ongoing for more than a year. 

"At the end of the day I just want to be in the light," Parrish said. "I want to have answers from my school board representatives, and I want to know what the plan is for my children."

Damon Jackey served on the school board more than a decade, but resigned in October over what he called "ethical concerns."

"Having been an elected official, I think it's good if you do things in the public eye and you engage the public, and I'm concerned that the board now has decided not to do that."

Attorneys did not speak on camera after the hearing. 

The next court date is scheduled for March 15.

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