Evanston, August 15, 2025
News Summary
District 65 in Evanston is facing significant financial difficulties due to ongoing budget deficits and declining student enrollment. The school board is considering closing one or more schools to improve financial stability. An early closure of Dr. Bessie Rhodes School has already been announced, with final decisions expected by July 2026. Community input will be solicited through public hearings as the district navigates these tough choices aimed at restoring financial health.
Evanston – District 65 Considers School Closures Amid Financial Deficits and Declining Enrollment
District 65 is facing significant financial challenges as it grapples with continuous budget deficits and a steady decline in student enrollment. In light of these issues, school board members are contemplating a vote this fall that could lead to the closure of one or more schools in the district. This decision is part of a broader strategy aimed at enhancing financial stability and reducing operating costs by consolidating underutilized classrooms.
The district has already announced the closure of Dr. Bessie Rhodes School of Global Studies, which will take effect after the end of the 2025-2026 school year. This early announcement is part of the district’s efforts to address its long-term financial sustainability, which has been a concern dating back to 2003.
The school board is scheduled to receive an update regarding the structural deficit reduction plan during a meeting on Monday. As part of this plan, the district aims to cut between $10 million and $15 million from its budget, in addition to the reductions already implemented in previous phases. Prior to making any final decisions on school closures, three public hearings will be conducted to gather community input as mandated by state law.
Criteria for School Closure Decisions
Multiple criteria are being utilized to assess potential school closures, focusing on geographic considerations, equity, building functionality, and the possible revenue that might result from selling school properties. Among these factors, geographical considerations carry the most weight, emphasizing student walkability with a maximum recommended distance of 0.75 miles to school.
Equity is another central theme in the evaluation process, particularly to ensure that marginalized student populations, such as Black students and English language learners, are not disproportionately impacted by potential closures. The Facilities Subcommittee of District 65 has taken proactive steps to visit all schools in the district, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation will guide closure decisions.
Background on Financial Challenges
Financial sustainability has become an increasing challenge for District 65, and the average age of a school in the district is 79 years. Many of these aging buildings are in need of significant repairs and have accessibility issues that could further complicate their viability for educational purposes. Community meetings will be held in September and November, allowing residents to express their concerns and offer input regarding the potential closure of schools.
The district is aiming to have any school closures finalized and effective by July 1, 2026, strategically timed to coincide with the opening of the new Foster School. Community input is invaluable during this process, and the District 65 administration is committed to transparent communication as they navigate these difficult decisions.
Summary of Key Information
| Key Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Current Status | Consideration of school closures due to financial deficits and declining enrollment. |
| Announced Closures | Dr. Bessie Rhodes School of Global Studies will close in 2026. |
| Budget Cuts | Aim to cut $10 million to $15 million from the budget. |
| Community Input | Three public hearings required before final decisions; meetings scheduled for September and November. |
| Decision Timeline | Final decisions expected by July 1, 2026. |
FAQs
What is prompting the school closures in District 65?
District 65 is experiencing prolonged financial deficits and is dealing with a steady decline in enrollment, which necessitates the consideration of school closures as a strategy for improving its financial situation.
How many schools could potentially close?
While specific numbers have not been finalized, the school board is exploring the possibility of closing one or more schools in the upcoming vote.
When will the community have a chance to express their opinions on school closures?
The district will hold three public hearings before any final vote, along with additional community meetings scheduled for September and November.
What are the main criteria for deciding which schools might close?
Criteria include equity, geography, the functionality of buildings, and the potential financial return from selling properties.
When will any school closures take effect?
Any closures that are approved are expected to take effect by July 1, 2026.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Safety Concerns Arise as Elkhorn District Opens New Schools
Vallejo School District Considers Closures Amid Financial Struggles
Evanston School District 65 Considers Potential School Closures
Federal Judge to Hear Arguments Against Immigrant Detention Center
Construction Worker Falls to Death in Salem, Massachusetts
Midland Innovation and Technology Charter School to Close
Frisco’s Downtown Rail District Faces Financial Strain
Vallejo City Unified School District’s 7-11 Committee Proposes School Closures
Federal Charges Filed Against Memphis Physician Dr. Kumar
La Conner School District Reinstates Critical Programs
Additional Resources
- Evanston Roundtable: Potential School Closures in District 65
- Wikipedia: Evanston, Illinois
- Chicago Tribune: Closure of Four Schools in District 65
- Google Search: District 65 Evanston School Closures
- Evanston Now: D65 Seeking Public Input on School Closings
- Encyclopedia Britannica: District 65 Evanston
- Daily Northwestern: D65 School Consolidation Criteria
- Google News: District 65 Evanston
Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
