Elementary Consolidation Plan

Harlem School District 122 is reviewing how our elementary schools are configured to better align our buildings with long-term enrollment, protect class sizes, and sustain high-quality programs for students.

On December 15, 2025, the Board of Education will consider a recommendation for updating our elementary structure beginning in 2026–2027.

This page provides an overview of the recommendation, the reasons behind it, and resources for families and staff.  The proposal can be found by clicking the button below.

Harlem 122 has experienced significant demographic and financial changes that require long-term structural planning. Key factors include:

• Enrollment Decline
  Elementary enrollment has dropped by more than 1,200 students since 2007, leaving several buildings underutilized.  Winnebago County has seen steady decreases in birth rates for more than a decade, meaning smaller kindergarten classes will continue.

• Financial Sustainability
  The district faces a financial deficit driven by rising costs and declining revenue sources. Operating more schools than we can fill pulls funding away from classrooms and programs. The Education Fund deficit for FY26 is $3.1 million.

Reconsolidation allows the district to protect instruction, maintain programs, and plan proactively rather than making emergency changes later.

• November 15, 2025 – Scenarios presented to the Board

• November–December 2025 – Community feedback survey & public meetings

• December 15, 2025 – Board considers final action

• Spring–Summer 2026 – Staff placement, building planning, open houses

• August 2026 – First year of the new configuration