Evanston, August 14, 2025
News Summary
The Evanston/Skokie School District 65 Board of Education is contemplating school closures in light of significant financial difficulties, with three consecutive budget deficits and declining enrollment. The board intends to vote on potential closures this fall, which could take effect next summer alongside the new Foster School’s opening. Community input is being sought through public hearings, as the district aims to reduce its budget by $10 million to $15 million. Key factors for consideration include geographic location, building functionality, and equity impacts on marginalized student groups.
Evanston — The Evanston/Skokie School District 65 Board of Education is considering potential school closures amid a significant financial crisis. This fall, the board may vote to close several schools, with any closures set to take effect next summer alongside the opening of the new Foster School. The district is grappling with falling enrollment figures and has faced three consecutive budget deficits. A fourth budget deficit is projected for fiscal year 2026, highlighting the urgent need for financial restructuring within the district.
School closures are being weighed as a strategy to improve the district’s finances and consolidate underutilized classrooms. Currently, no decisions have been made regarding specific schools, aside from the previously sanctioned closure of Dr. Bessie Rhodes School of Global Studies, which will happen after the 2025-2026 academic year.
In line with Illinois state law, the School Board must host three public hearings to gather community feedback prior to making any final decisions on closures. The first informational meeting is scheduled for 6 p.m. in the board room at the Joseph E. Hill Early Childhood Center. During this meeting, the board will discuss various school closure scenarios drafted by committees consisting of community volunteers and staff members.
While board members may vote on potential closure scenarios during this meeting, there is no obligation to do so. A deadline in November has been established to facilitate public hearings, with a final vote expected before winter break. The Chief Financial Officer of District 65, Tamara Mitchell, noted that decisions concerning potential closures will be included on the agenda if not resolved sooner.
The criteria for assessing potential school closures include multiple factors, such as geographic location, the equity impact on marginalized student groups, the functionality of school buildings, and potential financial implications. Committees formed to develop the closure criteria include the Facilities, Finance, and Student Programs Committees, which met bi-monthly from April to June 2024.
The district is aiming for budget reductions of between $10 million and $15 million, having already implemented cuts of around $20 million in earlier phases of its budgetary strategy. Key considerations influencing school closure decisions include student walkability, equity for historically marginalized groups, building repair needs, and general facility functionality.
The financial challenges facing the district have evolved over several years, with evidence of budgetary difficulties dating back to 2003. Future meetings are planned to ensure community involvement and provide opportunities for feedback before any school closures are decided.
FAQ
What is the reason for the potential school closures in Evanston/Skokie School District 65?
The district is facing falling enrollment numbers and three consecutive budget deficits, with a projected fourth deficit for fiscal year 2026. School closures are being considered as a way to consolidate underutilized classrooms and improve the financial situation.
When will the final decision about school closures be made?
A final vote on potential school closures is anticipated to happen before winter break following public hearings that are scheduled to take place in November.
What criteria will be used to assess the potential school closures?
Criteria for assessing closures include geographic location, equity impact on marginalized student groups, building functionality, and potential financial impacts. Committees have been established to develop these criteria.
How can the community get involved in the decision-making process?
The community can participate in the decision-making process by attending public hearings, providing feedback during meetings, and engaging with the school board’s discussions regarding closures. The first informational meeting is set for this fall.
Key features of Potential School Closures in Evanston/Skokie School District 65
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Reason for Closures | Falling enrollment and consecutive budget deficits |
| Previous Closures | Dr. Bessie Rhodes School of Global Studies (after 2025-2026) |
| Public Hearing Requirement | Three public hearings needed before final vote |
| Criteria for Assessment | Geographic location, equity impact, building functionality, financial impact |
| Deadline for Final Vote | Before winter break |
| Budget Reduction Goal | $10 million to $15 million |
| Community Involvement | Public meetings and feedback opportunities |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Philadelphia Takes Action on Historical Injustices
Additional Resources
- Evanston Roundtable: Potential School Closures District 65
- Wikipedia: School Closure
- Chicago Tribune: D65 May Close Four Schools
- Google Search: Evanston School Closures
- Evanston Roundtable: Evanston School Closures – Equity & Geography
- Google Scholar: School Closure Impact
- ABC7 Chicago: School Closings List
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Closure
- Evanston Now: D65 Seeking Public Input
- Google News: Evanston D65 School Closures
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