Grand Junction’s District 51 is preparing to notify the community about potential school closures, with an announcement expected by the end of this week. The district sent an email to parents on Monday evening detailing the upcoming timeline, which has created both anticipation and concern among families and staff.
Notification Plans for Affected Schools and Families
According to the district’s message, school administrators, faculty, and families of students at schools identified for potential closure will be informed by the end of the week. This includes notifying nearby schools that may need to absorb new students as a result of the closures.
District Superintendent Dr. Brian Hill will compile a Closure Recommendation Report for affected schools, families, and staff, which will provide insight into the decision-making process and offer specific recommendations. The report aims to address community questions and outline the rationale behind each proposed closure.
November 19: Key Decision Date
The critical date to watch is November 19, when Superintendent Hill will present the Closure Recommendation Report to the District 51 Board of Education during its November meeting. At this meeting, Hill is expected to formally recommend which schools should close, starting in the 2025-2026 school year.
The Board of Education will vote that same evening to finalize which schools will be closed. While the details of Hill’s recommendations have not yet been disclosed, the board’s decision will set the course for how District 51 adjusts to new student populations and realigns resources.
Adjusting School Boundaries for the 2025-2026 School Year
With potential closures on the horizon, District 51 will also modify elementary school boundaries to accommodate shifts in student distribution. The district intends to address these boundary changes after the closure decisions are finalized, with adjustments planned to be approved prior to the school of choice application period.
Boundary realignments will play a key role in managing student populations across schools, ensuring that capacity remains balanced. This approach will help prevent overcrowding in receiving schools and create a smoother transition for affected students.
Unanswered Questions About Faculty and Staff
One significant detail missing from the district’s email is the plan for faculty and staff from schools that may close. For many, job security remains an open question, and the district has not yet provided guidance on whether staff will be reassigned to other schools or if other options will be available. The uncertainty surrounding employment will likely weigh heavily on teachers and administrators as they await further details.
District 51’s plans will be closely watched as families, educators, and the broader community prepare for possible changes in the local school landscape.
