(The Center Square) – The Bellevue School District is considering closing three elementary schools for the 2023-24 school year in the wake of declining enrollment.
In the last three years, the Bellevue School District has lost 1,886 students throughout its schools. This could have resulted in a $20 million drop in revenue if it were not for state and federal funds the district has been receiving.
The district found that 70% of the decrease in enrollment stemmed from its elementary schools. In return, seven elementary schools with the lowest enrollment rates are being considered to shut down next school year. The list includes Ardmore, Eastgate, Enatai, Phantom Lake, Sherwood Forest, Woodridge and Wilburton. Three of the schools could be announced as part of a consolidation plan that is set to be revealed on Feb. 9.
“I know that this is hard work [and] I realize many people will be impacted, but our goal from this is to provide the best services, supports and programs to all elementary students and not have them impacted just because they are in a smaller school than others,” Bellevue School District Deputy Superintendent Melissa deVita said in a video on the district’s website.
