Save Our Schools Rally

12111 Northeast 1st Street,Bellevue WA 98005

06 February, 2023

Description

Due to declining student enrollment across the district, Bellevue Schools is looking to close several elementary schools and repurpose them for "innovative programing" (choice schools). This would disperse neighborhood school communities across various schools in the district and has the potential to cause inequities for students who qualify for Free & Reduced Lunch and students with special needs. Bellevue School District cites declining student population and classroom underutilization among criteria for school closure. Bellevue School District will make a final recommendation on school closures to the School Board by February 9th. Why does this process need to be so rushed? If, as Dr. Jarvis said, we are only beginning to look at options, this should be a longer conversation with more stakeholders included. Two weeks for staff and parent input is inadequate. We understand the need to save money and close schools, but it needs to be done thoughtfully. We are asking that Bellevue School District and the Board slow the process down and involve more stakeholders and more options in the decision. Please join us at rally to preserve the quality and reputation of Bellevue School District’s past, present, and future!