Muncie Community Schools came to state lawmakers' attention in the past few years for a multi-million dollar budget deficit.

A severe thunderstorm toppled part of the Muncie Fieldhouse's brick facade last November, damaging its roof and water pipes that released a deluge that damaged the hardwood basketball court.

Official enrollment counts are done in September across the state. But, unofficially, Muncie Community Schools says it lost 63 students this school year.

The Muncie Community School Board has authorized emergency roof repairs to the Muncie Fieldhouse.

The $12 million loan was authorized by the Legislature and Gov. Eric Holcomb under legislation authorizing Ball State University to take over governance of the school district.

Muncie residents heard passionate answers from hopeful applicants for the future Ball State University-appointed Muncie Community Schools board Tuesday night.

The Ball State University Board of Trustees has approved the university taking over the financially troubled Muncie Community Schools - days after Gov. Eric Holcomb signed legislation allowing the move.

The school takeover bill is largely about intensifying state takeover of the distressed Gary and Muncie schools. But it also creates new "fiscal indicators" for every school system.

The university could be the first in the state to run a public school district.

The testimony was solely about a Gary-Muncie school takeover bill, the most controversial measure lawmakers will hear next week.