Frequently Asked Questions

Last Updated January 29th, 2026

General Questions

What is elementary reconsolidation?

It is a long-term plan to align our elementary schools with current and projected enrollment. This includes adjusting grade configurations, relocating programs, and repurposing buildings to keep class sizes stable and preserve high-quality services.

Why is the district considering these changes?

Several elementary buildings operate far below capacity. Enrollment has declined by more than 1,200 students since 2007, and county birth rates show a long-term downward trend. At the same time, the district faces a financial deficit that requires more efficient use of buildings.

What are the new options being explored?

Several scenarios were explored to increase building utilization as well as address the budget deficit.  Following the intitial proposal of scenarios, the Board requested that administration make adjustments based on feedback received from stakeholders.  On January 14th, the administration presented four modified options to better address stakeholder feedback.  The four options included the following structures: K, 15 Neighborhood Schools; K-5 Neighborhood Schools; K-1,2-3, & 4-5 Schools; and K-2 & 3-5 Sister Schools.  Additional information about these options can be found on the main page.

What option did the board select?

After reviewing the options and receiving feedback from staff, families, and community members, the Board of Education selected K, 1-5 Neighborhood Schools which maintains current school structures for all schools remaining in operation next school year, allowing those schools to continue operating as they do today.  Parker Center will continue to serve as an early childhood center and the remaining schools will serve as 1st through 5th grade buildings. The Board reached consensus to proceed with this option.

When will students know what school they are attending? 

Students and families will receive confirmation of their school placement at the end of February (tentative).  Families will receive email communication along with an interactive map.

Scenario & Structure

What options did the Board consider?

The Board considered two of the four new options presented.  The K, 1-5 Neighborhood Schools and the K-2 and 3-5 Sister Schools option was considered for implementation.

Why did the board explore grade bands instead of K–5 neighborhood schools?

Two-year grade bands create stronger teacher collaboration, allow specialized instruction, support departmentalization in upper grades, and balance specialized programs across the district.  The grade bands allow for greater flexibility should enrollment change in the future while addressing the district's budget deficit.  The more classes offered in a building for each grade level, the more efficient the building becomes.  This reduces excess open seats across the district.      

How will this affect my child’s current school assignment?

Students may attend different buildings depending on where they live. A tentative school boundary map for the selected option can be found here.  

What schools will close?

Maple and Olson Park will be closed starting in the 2026-2027 school year.

Programs & Services

What happens to Early Childhood (EC)?

Currently, the number of early childhood classrooms will be reduced from 11 to 4.  The EC program with required programs (STP, Life Skills) remains in place.  The district administration is actively looking for ways to amend the current grant funded program to increase the number of early childhood classrooms available.  

What happens to HoLA and Fine Arts?

Both programs may be relocated based on the option chosen.  Each option attempts to ensure that each program has the appropriate space necessary.

What about ALP?

The Advanced Learner Program will be housed at Marquette Elementary which will now be a 1st through 5th grade school.  

Will students still receive ESL and special education services in every building?

In the K, 1-5 neighborhood school option, ESL services are provided at Loves Park, Machesney, Marquette, and Parker Center.

Finances

Why is there a 3.1 million dollar education fund deficit?

As revenue sources decrease or do not keep pace with the Consumer Price Index (CPI) and expenses continue to increase, the FY26 Education Fund deficit is approximately $3.1 million.  The FY26 projected fund balance (6/30/26) will be just over $15 million.  In order to maintain a balanced budget based on the projected deficit, the district has to make adjustments to expenses.  Read below to learn more about the Education Fund.

• Education Fund (Illinois):
  The Education Fund is the primary operating fund for Illinois school districts and pays for most day-to-day instructional costs, including teacher salaries, classroom materials, technology, and support services. It represents the largest portion of the district budget and directly supports student learning and school operations.

• Other Funds:
  Funds such as the Operations & Maintenance Fund, Transportation Fund, and Debt Service Fund are legally restricted for specific purposes like building upkeep, bus transportation, and repayment of bonds. These funds cannot be used for general instructional costs, ensuring that districts spend money according to state requirements and voter-approved purposes.

How does the district pay for facility improvements?

Building improvements in Illinois school districts are primarily paid for through the Operations & Maintenance Fund (O&M) and the Capital Projects Fund. The O&M Fund covers repairs, upkeep, and ongoing maintenance needed to keep buildings safe and functional, while the Capital Projects Fund is used for larger, long-term improvements such as renovations, major mechanical upgrades, additions, and construction. Districts may also use the Life Safety Fund for state-mandated safety projects and the Debt Service Fund to repay bonds that financed major building projects. These funds are legally restricted and cannot be used for instructional or general operating expenses. 

Staffing & Employment

Will staff lose their jobs?

Yes.  There will be reductions based on the closure of two schools.  The total number of staff reductions will be impacted by attrition and retirement.  

How will staff placements be determined?

Following the Board’s decision, the district will implement a phased, legally compliant transition process to ensure transparent communication, fair staffing practices, and smooth preparation for staffing in the 2026–2027 school year. 

Will teachers have to move buildings?

Staff may shift locations due to the adjustment of school boundaries or program relocation. This varies by role but is managed through careful transition planning.

Boundaries & Transportation

Will boundaries change?

Yes. A tentative school boundary map for the selected option can be found here. Boundary changes support balanced enrollment, efficient transportation, and program access.

Will bus routes change?

Yes. The district shifts to two elementary tiers, which simplifies routing and reduces bus transfers.

Will students have long bus rides?

In some situations. All options were designed to keep routes comparable to today while reducing unnecessary cross-district travel.  However, because of the new school boundaries, some students may have longer bus rides.

Timeline & Decision-Making

When did the Board make its' decision?

The Board of Education voted on Tuesday, January 27th to close both Maple Elementary and Olson Park Elementary.  The Board also reached consensus to continue to operate schools in the current K and 1-5 grade structure.  

How many public hearings were required to close the schools?

In Illinois, school district must hold at least three pubolic hearings to gather input before voting to close a school. 

When will the new configuration begin?

The 2026–2027 school year.