News Summary
In Lincolnwood, parents and community members are raising concerns over proposed school closures in District 65. With discussions revealing potential plans to shut down several local schools, including Lincolnwood and Kingsley Elementary, parents argue that these changes could significantly impact students and the community. Organizing at a recent meeting, they expressed worries about a rushed decision-making process and the lack of transparency from the school board. As the district navigates financial challenges, parents are advocating for increased engagement and a more thoughtful approach to potential closures.
Lincolnwood, Illinois — Parents Rally Against Proposed School Closures in District 65
In Lincolnwood and surrounding areas, a growing group of parents and community members are voicing concerns over ongoing discussions about potential school closures in District 65. Over 75 parents gathered recently at the Fat Shallot restaurant to organize opposition to the district’s tentative plans, which could have significant impacts on local schools and student populations.
District 65 Reveals Multiple Closure Scenarios
The district unveiled seven different potential scenarios that could lead to the closure of schools, including Lincolnwood Elementary and Kingsley Elementary. Each of these scenarios suggests the elimination of at least one of the district’s schools, with Lincolnwood and Kingsley facing a high risk of closure based on current proposals.
Other schools in the discussion include Willard Elementary, Washington Elementary, Dawes Elementary, and King Arts Magnet School. Notably, all options under consideration involve ending the district’s two-way immersion Spanish-English program at Willard, raising concerns about the impact on bilingual and Latino communities.
Parent Concerns Over Decision-Making Process
Parents expressed alarm over the timeline set by the district, criticizing what they perceive as a rushed process for making such impactful decisions. Many noted a lack of transparency from the school board regarding the criteria guiding these proposals and questioned whether closing schools would effectively address the district’s financial challenges.
The district’s financial outlook has recently improved, with a revised projected deficit of $372,509, down significantly from an earlier estimate of $5.69 million. Despite this, parents argue that the district does not currently face a crisis that justifies hasty closures.
Impact on Student Bodies and Community
There is concern that school closures will disproportionately affect students from Evanston’s north side, where many families rely on neighborhood schools for early education. School officials and parents alike worry that such closures could disrupt students’ learning and community ties.
Parent and event organizer, Katie Armistead, highlighted the importance of ensuring all children have access to local, neighborhood schools. The potential loss of schools, especially those serving Hispanic and Latino students, has raised fears about the further marginalization of these communities, particularly concerning the two-way immersion program.
Calls for Increased Engagement and Transparency
The community is requesting more communication and involvement in the decision-making process. Parents are advocating for the formation of a task force to participate in ongoing discussions and to help advocate against closures.
Additional input came from local government representatives. Sixth Ward Councilmember Tom Suffredin suggested that the city should involve itself in the discussions, reflecting concerns about transparency and community representation. Some parents also voiced dissatisfaction with the school board’s perceived lack of concern for schools located in north Evanston.
Financial and Structural Context of the District
District 65 faces challenges beyond declining enrollment, which currently stands below 60% capacity across the district. The district’s aging infrastructure requires approximately $188 million in repairs to remain operational and safe for students and staff.
A recent analysis of potential school closures indicated that shutting down King Arts Magnet School could save the district approximately $2.7 million annually. Likewise, closing Lincolnwood and Kingsley Elementary could each save about $2 million per year. Despite the financial savings, critics warn that closing schools prematurely could worsen the district’s declining enrollment trends.
Upcoming Decisions and Community Engagement
The school board is not expected to make final decisions until late October or early November. To gather public input, scheduled feedback sessions will provide parents, staff, and community members opportunities to voice opinions and concerns about the proposed closures.
Parents and community members continue to call for greater collaboration and transparency in order to ensure that any decisions made will best serve students’ needs and uphold the district’s commitment to equitable education.
As debates continue, the community remains engaged, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful planning and consideration of the long-term impacts of school closures on families and neighborhoods alike.
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Additional Resources
- Evanston Roundtable: District 65 School Closure Recommendations
- Chicago Tribune: Evanston-Skokie District 65 Leans Toward Closing Schools
- Evanston Now: D65 Incomplete School Closing Info Leaked
- Evanston Now: D65 Sets Decision Day for School Closings
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School
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