Evanston, IL, October 11, 2025
News Summary
The Evanston/Skokie School District 65 is facing significant pushback from parents regarding proposed school closures, including Washington Elementary, amidst a projected budget deficit. Over 100 parents gathered to voice their concerns and advocate for community needs. The school board’s vote on these closures is set for November 17, raising issues of equity and community representation. Parents and caregivers are pressing for transparency in decision-making and careful consideration of the impact on students, particularly in light of existing educational programs at Washington.
Evanston, IL – The Evanston/Skokie School District 65 is facing significant community resistance regarding proposed school closures, with over 100 parents and caregivers gathering at Washington Elementary School to voice their concerns. The district is considering closing several schools, including Washington Elementary, as it grapples with a projected budget deficit of $10-$15 million by 2027, driven by declining student enrollment rates.
A group named “Save Washington” has formed, consisting of at least 28 dedicated caregivers advocating for a comprehensive examination of the community’s needs in the school board’s decision-making process. Organizers for this group have expressed their worries about the proposed scenarios and the timeline revealed at a recent board meeting, which is set for discussion.
The school board is scheduled to vote on the closure scenarios on November 17, initiating a public hearing process for the proposed closures. Many parents have pointed out the pressing nature of the timeline, noting only a seven-week interval from the presentation of closure scenarios to the voting date, which could impede thorough deliberation and introduce substantial risks.
Washington Elementary holds significant importance within the district, as it is one of seven Title I schools that serve a high percentage of low-income students. It is also home to two critical programs: the two-way immersion (TWI) English and Spanish program and the Structured Teaching Education Program (STEP) for autism support. Parents have voiced their positive experiences with these programs, emphasizing that budget decisions should not negatively impact students.
The community has broadened the conversation by inviting participants from Dawes and Oakton Elementary schools to engage in discussions concerning the closures. Many parents support the “Invest in Neighborhood Schools” initiative and are pressing for collaboration across districts. Concerns have also been raised about the representation of marginalized voices in these discussions, particularly in the context of recent immigration issues affecting families.
Moreover, the loss of trust following the indictment of a former District 65 superintendent for embezzlement and fraud on the same day as the meeting has added to the community’s anxiety regarding financial management. As city council members delve into the matter, they emphasize the necessity for joint discussions between the city and the school district, particularly about reconciling differing population projections and financial strategies.
Current projections reflect a decline in student enrollment, despite the city’s growth plans suggesting an increase. This contradiction has ignited debates over the accuracy and timeliness of planning efforts. Many parents and residents are advocating for a more measured approach to school closures, urging the board to deliberate the long-term consequences of their decisions carefully.
Some school board members have echoed these sentiments by indicating a preference for detailed analyses of the proposed scenarios while calling for enhanced transparency in the overall decision-making process. A special school board meeting is set for October 8 at Joseph E. Hill Early Childhood Education Center, focusing on public commentary regarding the closure scenarios.
Summary of Key Details
- Over 100 parents gathered at Washington Elementary to discuss proposed school closures.
- “Save Washington” is a group advocating for careful consideration of community needs.
- The school board will vote on closure scenarios on November 17.
- Washington Elementary is a Title I school with critical educational programs.
- Parents are concerned about the implications for equity and representation.
- The district anticipates a budget deficit exacerbated by declining enrollment rates.
- A special school board meeting on October 8 will allow public dialogue on closures.
Looking Forward
The upcoming meetings and discussions will be crucial in determining the future of not only Washington Elementary but also the broader implications for the district and its students. Parents and community members continue to advocate for a thoughtful and transparent approach to these significant decisions.
FAQ
What are the reasons behind the proposed school closures in District 65?
The proposed school closures are primarily due to a projected budget deficit of $10-$15 million by 2027, including declining student enrollment rates.
What is the timeline for decision-making regarding these closures?
The school board is expected to vote on closure scenarios on November 17, following a public hearing process.
How are parents getting involved in this process?
Parents, including members of the “Save Washington” group, are organizing discussions, advocating for neighborhood schools, and participating in public meetings to express their concerns.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Budget Deficit | $10-$15 million by 2027 |
| Enrollment Trend | Decline in student enrollment rates |
| Key Programs at Washington | Two-way immersion program and STEP for autism |
| Community Engagement | Over 100 parents at the meeting; cross-district dialogue |
| Next Meeting | Special school board meeting on October 8 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Former District 65 Superintendent Indicted on Multiple Charges
Evanston/Skokie School District 65 Cancels Meeting on Budget Cuts
Hudson School Board Discusses Closure of Two Elementary Schools
Construction Worker Dies After Fall at Van Meter School Site
Tragic 30-Foot Fall Claims Life of Construction Worker
District 65 Discusses Potential School Closures
Broward County Public Schools Proposes Major Changes
Vermont Faces Construction Labor Shortages and Rising Costs Amid Ongoing Development Projects
AISD Proposes Closure of 13 Schools
Additional Resources
- Evanston RoundTable: District 65 Calls Special Meeting for Oct 8 to Discuss School Closures
- Wikipedia: Education in the United States
- Evanston Now: Horton Indictment Hangs Over School Closing Process
- Google Search: Evanston school closures
- Evanston RoundTable: Save Washington School Closure
- Google Scholar: School Closure Impact
- Evanston Now: Board Leaning Towards at Least Two School Closings
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Closure
- Evanston RoundTable: District 65 School Closure Recommendations
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