Closure and Consolidation
Our district, like many in California, is facing declining enrollment impacting our funding and requiring us to consider closing and consolidating schools. This is a emotional issue for our community, and we are committed to a transparent, equitable, and community-driven process. Learn about the closure and consolidation process, the reasons behind it, and how you can stay informed and involved.
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Community Voices on Closure and Consolidation
We recognize the importance of keeping our community well-informed and providing avenues for feedback. Ask your questions anonymously and receive straightforward, accurate information straight from the source.
Why the Need for Consolidation?
VCUSD has seen a 21% enrollment decline since 2018, with projections of further decreases over the next nine years. This trend, driven by factors like housing costs, smaller family sizes, and increased competition, has left the district operating more schools than needed. To address this, VCUSD’s 7-11 Committee is exploring school consolidation as a means to create a more efficient, sustainable system that better serves students and the community.
VCUSD’s funding is directly impacted by California’s attendance-based finance system, with fewer students leading to reduced revenue. By consolidating schools, the district can potentially save hundreds of thousands of dollars in unrestricted funds annually and repurpose surplus properties. These savings will enable VCUSD to focus resources on enhancing facilities, technology, and student support services, ensuring a stronger financial foundation and improved learning environments across the district.
VCUSD’s school consolidation plan aims to refocus resources on fewer schools, enabling expanded programs in areas like STEM, arts, and career pathways. Larger schools offer greater flexibility in staffing, reduced reliance on multi-grade classes, and increased teacher collaboration, all of which improve student learning. Additionally, surplus properties from consolidations could be repurposed as community assets, such as after-school programs or healthcare centers, benefiting the broader VCUSD community.
7-11 Committee: Research and Assessment Process
The 7-11 Committee advises the district on school closures and consolidations, gathering community input through public meetings and hearings. The committee assesses district properties based on factors like enrollment trends, transportation needs, and potential alternative uses. All committee meeting minutes, agendas, and relevant documents are made public, upholding transparency and accountability throughout the process.
All meetings will be held in the Governing Board Room, 665 Walnut Ave., and begin at 5:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted.
All meetings will be held in the Governing Board Room, 665 Walnut Ave., and begin at 5:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted.
All meetings will be held in the Governing Board Room, 665 Walnut Ave., and begin at 5:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted.
All meetings will be held in the Governing Board Room, 665 Walnut Ave., and begin at 5:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted.
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