In a recent email to parents and staff, Mesa County Valley School District 51 announced its first school closure recommendation, targeting Nisley Elementary due to ongoing performance challenges. With Nisley having struggled academically for several years, the district is preparing to shift students and staff to nearby schools if the Board of Education approves the closure on November 19.
Why Nisley Elementary is on the Chopping Block
The recommendation to close Nisley Elementary comes after the school has spent years on the Accountability Clock—a designation by the Colorado Department of Education that tracks schools with persistently low academic performance. Nisley has ranked in the bottom two academic levels in seven of the last eight years, placing it under intense scrutiny by both the state and district.
Closing a school is a significant decision that directly affects students, families, and staff members. District 51’s goal is to offer better learning environments and to address concerns over the quality of education provided at Nisley. However, officials stress that the decision does not reflect negatively on Nisley’s teachers or students.
Support for Families and Staff
Nisley Elementary Principal Dorothy Wolf has acknowledged the emotional and practical impact of the potential closure. In an email to her staff, Wolf assured them of ongoing support, stating, “This decision does not reflect the dedication of our staff or the potential of our students.” She emphasized the importance of providing information and resources to both staff and families throughout the transition period.
If the Board of Education approves the closure, District 51 has plans to help staff and students adjust to new roles and schools. Measures include assistance with finding job opportunities within the district for Nisley staff, as well as support in selecting new schools for students.
Rezoning and Transportation Plans
Should the closure be approved, students from Nisley Elementary will be rezoned to attend either Orchard Avenue Elementary or Fruitvale Elementary. The district will also provide updates on transportation services, School of Choice options, and any adjustments in school boundaries, though final decisions on zoning won’t be made until December.
District 51 has pledged to prioritize a smooth transition, ensuring transportation routes are updated and readily accessible. Additionally, they’ll offer resources on how to navigate the new School of Choice options for families who prefer a different school than those specified in the rezoning.
What’s Next for District 51
The closure proposal, set to be reviewed by the Board of Education on November 19, marks a pivotal decision for District 51. Community members, parents, and staff are invited to share their feedback with the board before the meeting. If approved, this closure could set a precedent for how the district addresses academic underperformance in the future.
