Frequently Asked Questions

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 scenarios were explored?

Several scenarios were explored to increase building utilization as well as address the budget deficit.  The administration then narrowed the scenarios down to four.  Of the scenarios reviewed, scenario 7 provided flexibility, strong grade level collaboration, and consisten access to specialized programs.  Scenario 7 also balanced our building utilization while addressing the budget deficit.  To learn more about the scenarios, visit our Scenario page.

Scenario & Structure

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

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.    

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.

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.

Programs & Services

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 with required programs (STP, Life Skills) remains in place.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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

Will boundaries change?

Yes. Draft maps are available on the School Zone Map subpage. 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. 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

When will the Board make its decision?

The decision has been paused for further review.  Updated timelines will be shared soon.

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.