Cleveland - Several Cleveland elementary schools are scheduled to be closed, relocated, renovated or replaced under a new proposal outlined Wednesday night by Cleveland Metropolitan School District CEO Eric Gordon.
The school district said the recommendations, which are based on extensive data analysis and community feedback, are only for K-8 schools. Changes would take effect during the 2020-21 school year. A similar process for high schools will follow in the fall.
The K-8 proposals include:
Close four schools -- Willow, Iowa-Maple, Michael R. White and Case.
Relocate five schools - Kenneth W. Clement Boys’ Leadership Academy, Valley View Boys’ Leadership Academy, Tremont Montessori, Bolton and Dike School of the Arts. The two all-boys schools would be consolidated into one school, as would Bolton and Dike.
Renovate or construct five new buildings for students in seven schools - Clark, Walton, Denison, Charles A. Mooney, Joseph M. Gallagher, Marion C. Seltzer and Douglas MacArthur Girls’ Leadership Academy. Clark would be consolidated with Walton and Denison would be consolidated with Mooney.
The projects are part of a continuing modernization program funded by the state and a local bond issue.
According to the district, the four schools recommended for closing are in older buildings, have low enrollment and received a D or F on their most recent state report cards. Nearby schools have space, mostly in new or renovated buildings, for additional students.
The five schools proposed for relocation would move from older structures to three existing modernized buildings
The Board of Education will consider the recommendations in June, after the District receives more input.
Photo by: Kyle Cornell / WTAM 1100
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