The Fairbanks North Star Borough School District Board of Education is tackling an issue, the Fairbanks School Consolidation Plan. The plan addresses a $16 million budget deficit and a 15% drop in student enrollment.
Recently, the school board held a community listening session at Lathrop High School. The session allowed parents and residents to share their thoughts on the plan. Six schools, Hunter Elementary, Midnight Sun Elementary, and Two Rivers Elementary, are recommended for closure.
These schools are operating below capacity, ranging from 61% to 80%. The consolidation plan includes rightsizing efforts, redistricting, and redistributing students. It also involves revitalizing the school district to improve educational options.
At the listening session, residents expressed concerns about the potential closures. Jaxson Redmond, a Pearl Creek Elementary student, worried about long bus rides if his school closed. Others praised the listening session, saying it was needed years ago.
Timothy Poindexter, a Two Rivers resident, suggested that earlier community engagement might have helped solve the problem. School Board President Melissa Burnett emphasized the importance of gathering feedback.
Burnett wants to know what unique aspects of each school would be lost if it closed. The board will share insights gathered from the listening sessions at the next public hearing and work session.
In addition, the school board is working to make informed decisions. They are considering the impact of closures on students, families, and communities and looking at ways to improve educational options.
Furthermore, the Fairbanks School Consolidation Plan is a complex issue. It requires careful consideration and community input. By working together, the school board and community can find the best solution.
The Fairbanks School Consolidation Plan is a critical issue. The school board is working hard to make informed decisions.
News story originally published by Alaska’s News Source.
