Mesa County Valley School District 51 has confirmed that Nisley Elementary will reopen as an Early Childhood Education (EDE) Center next school year, a move that follows the district’s broader school consolidation efforts.
District Announces Major Transition Plan
The announcement was made during the latest D51 board meeting, where officials outlined plans for the upcoming changes. The new EDE Center will absorb preschool programs currently operating at Clifton and Nisley Elementary schools.
Starting next month, the district will begin relocating students, hiring new staff, and preparing for the logistical shift of materials and resources. The affected schools, including Nisley, Clifton, and Scenic Elementary, will officially close at the end of the school year.
Key Dates and Transition Process
The district has provided a timeline for the transition, ensuring that families and staff can prepare for the changes:
- May 19: Last day of school for Nisley, Clifton, and Scenic Elementary.
- Summer 2025: Transition and renovations for the new EDE Center.
- Fall 2025: The new EDE Center opens under the D51 umbrella.
The restructuring aims to streamline early childhood education services and provide a dedicated learning space for preschool-aged children.
Impact on Families and Staff
For parents and educators, the transition brings both challenges and opportunities:
- Families currently enrolled in Clifton and Nisley preschool programs will shift to the new EDE Center.
- Teachers and staff from closing schools will have opportunities to apply for new positions within the district.
- Other elementary schools in the area will absorb students from the closing institutions, necessitating class size adjustments and resource reallocations.
While the closure of three elementary schools is a significant shift for the community, D51 officials believe this restructuring will enhance early education services and create a more focused learning environment for young children.
