Frequently Asked Questions

General Questions

1. 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.

2. 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.

3. Will any schools close?

Under the recommended scenario, grade-band realignment and a magnet school will change how buildings are used. Buildings will no longer serve a traditional K–5 role and Maple and Olson Park will not be utilized in the new elementary school structure.

Scenario & Structure

4. What is the recommended scenario?

The administration recommends Scenario 7, which includes:

• East/West regional campuses

• Two-year grade bands: K–1, 2–3, 4–5

• A magnet school for EC, PI, HoLA, Fine Arts, and ALP

• Redistributed specialized programs to balance enrollment and services

5. Why choose 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.    

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

Students will attend different buildings depending on grade level. Exact assignments are on the School Zone Map page.  Students will transfer between schools every two years.

Programs & Services

7. What happens to Early Childhood (EC)?

EC and PI (0–3) will be at the magnet site, where staff can support young learners in a developmentally focused, specialized environment.  However, the EC number of classrooms will be reduced from 11 to 4.  The EC program will Required programs (STP, Life Skills) remain in place.

8. What happens to HoLA and Fine Arts?

Both programs are housed in the magnet school to provide stability, allow more efficient staffing, and support program growth.

9. What about ALP?

ALP remains available for currently identified students and will phase out. Housing it in the magnet prevents disruption during phase-out.  The new structure will allow for 5th grade honors courses at each East and West campus 4-5 school.

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

Yes. All six banded campuses will have ESL and special education supports. Two social workers are assigned to each East/West campus.

Staffing & Employment

11. 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.  

12. 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. 

13. Will teachers have to move buildings?

Many staff may shift locations due to grade bands or program relocation. This varies by role and scenario but is managed through careful transition planning.

Boundaries & Transportation

14. Will boundaries change?

Yes. Draft maps are available on the School Zone Map subpage. Boundary changes support balanced enrollment, efficient transportation, and program access.

15. Will bus routes change?

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

16. Will students have long bus rides?

In some situations. Grade bands and East/West geography 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

17. When will the Board make its decision?

December 15, 2025, following public meetings and community feedback.

18. When will the new configuration begin?

The 2026–2027 school year.

19. How can families and staff share feedback?

A feedback survey is available on the main page. Public meetings will also be held before the Board vote.