Proposals for School Closures and Mergers Announced
Boston Public Schools revealed a series of significant restructuring proposals on Tuesday. They aim to close three schools, merge two, and reconfigure others to better serve the community’s educational needs. Superintendent Mary Skipper announced that these plans will be formally presented to the Boston School Committee on January 22.
According to Skipper, the proposed changes are part of a long-term strategy to align resources and facilities with the district’s future goals. “At that time, we’ll be doing something that’s been asked for for a long time. We’ve put in a great deal of effort to provide a roadmap for long-term projections for 2030, so five-year projections,” she stated.
The plan outlines the closure of Dever Elementary School, Excel High School, and Mary Lyon Pilot High School. In addition, Winthrop and Clap Elementary schools would be merged and relocated to the Lilla G. Frederick Elementary School building. Community Academy, while also set for closure as a degree-granting school, would transition into a program designed to support students needing temporary code-of-conduct placements or those transitioning from the Department of Youth Services into Boston Public Schools.
Reconfigurations Target Age-Specific Learning Models
Several schools in the district are set to undergo significant reconfigurations under the proposed plans. Mary Lyon K-8 School, BTU Pilot School, and Young Achievers Science and Math Pilot School will shift to PreK-6 models, while Dearborn STEM Academy will be restructured to serve students in grades 7 through 12.
“These decisions, while difficult, are data-driven and reflect the next step in our best path forward to ensure a High-Quality Student Experience for every student and family across Boston,” the district said in a statement. Officials acknowledged the potential challenges of the transition, stating their commitment to transparency and ongoing support for students, families, and staff affected by the changes.
Boston Mayor Michelle Wu emphasized the restructuring process’s importance, describing it as a step toward better educational opportunities. “Everyone benefits when the next generation has full access to learning and growth,” Wu remarked, reflecting optimism for the district’s future.
Calls for New Construction and Long-Term Planning
While the proposals have been described as necessary to improve resource allocation, they have also drawn attention to the need for infrastructure investment. Union leaders called on the district to prioritize new construction projects, urging a commitment to building at least three new facilities annually. “It is imperative that the district commit to completing the construction of at least three buildings annually and should detail such a plan to the public in the coming weeks, not years,” the union stated.
As Boston Public Schools moves forward with its restructuring strategy, the proposals signal a shift toward a more sustainable and efficient education system. However, the district faces the dual challenge of ensuring a smooth transition while addressing broader concerns about its facilities and infrastructure.
