August 22, 2006 > New Haven school closure discussions

The New Haven Unified Board of Education held a study session to review information regarding Superintendent Dr. Pat Jaurequi's recommendation to close two schools. This recommendation was in accordance with the board's decision to minimize the financial impact of declining enrollment. The board voted in May to close one elementary school at the start of the 2007 school year, and one middle school in 2008.

Jaurequi presented information about each of the district's eight elementary and three middle schools, including age and last modernization dates; academic performance; special education services; enrollment patterns; proximity to other sites; capacity; traffic and pedestrian issues; closing costs; and ethnic and socioeconomic data. The information is posted on the district's web site (www.nhusd.k12.ca.us) along with a list of frequently asked questions.

As part of the district's effort to involve parents, employees and community members in the decision, public forums on the closure issue will be held at 6:30 p.m., Aug. 24; 4 p.m. Aug. 31; 7 p.m., Sept. 11 (in Spanish); and at 6:30 p.m., Sept. 13; all at the Educational Services Center, 34200 Alvarado-Niles Road. Information also will be available at Back-to-School Nights at all schools.

The board's Sept. 5 meeting will include time for public comments, in advance of final decisions Sept. 19.

The board also received a 45-day budget update showing a $5.6 million increase in the general fund. Most of the increase comes in the form of one-time money with restricted uses, and most of that money will be used to support student achievement, in line with the goals identified by the students, parents, teachers and other community members outlined in the Strategic Plan.