Orange County Public Schools Considers Closure of Seven Schools Amid Declining Enrollment
Orange County, Florida—In a significant development, Orange County Public Schools (OCPS) is contemplating the closure and consolidation of seven schools within the district, in response to a steady decline in student enrollment. This proposal has sparked a wave of concern among parents, families, and community members who are rallying to keep their beloved institutions open.
The decline in enrollment has been attributed to a variety of factors, including demographic shifts and the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the schools considered for closure is Bonneville Elementary School, which has operated since 1961 and has deep historical and emotional ties to the community. Many current parents, including Amanda Weber, have roots in the school themselves, having attended Bonneville during their childhood.
Weber, whose social network is closely tied to the school, expressed her distress over the potential closure. “I met my husband here, and many parents I know have also attended this school. It holds a special place in our hearts,” she stated. Her son, Logan Canada, echoed this sentiment, saying, “I love this school, and I don’t want it to close.”
OCPS has not yet made a definitive decision regarding the closures, but an email from the district outlined a potential timeline for consolidating facilities, suggesting that Bonneville is earmarked for possible conversion by 2027. The proposal also implies that Eccleston Elementary School may be repurposed as a pediatric health facility, reflecting a broader trend of integrating educational and healthcare services.
Local representatives, including Orange County Commissioner Michael Scott, have voiced their concerns about prioritizing educational institutions over potential health facilities. “It’s important to question not just why we should close schools, but why we should keep them open,” he remarked. Scott emphasized the need for community engagement and dialogue regarding the future of these schools, advocating for the retention of educational environments that foster student and staff relationships, particularly for vulnerable populations.
In light of the discussions surrounding closures, OCPS has scheduled a series of community meetings to solicit input from parents and stakeholders. The meetings will take place at various schools, including Bonneville Elementary on January 15 and Eccleston Elementary on January 21. These forums present an opportunity for residents to voice their concerns and suggest alternatives to closure.
Weber, recognizing the urgency of the situation, initiated a petition to save Bonneville, which has already garnered more than a thousand signatures. “We can’t just sit back and let this happen without trying to advocate for our kids,” she emphasized, highlighting the impact potential closures may have on families with children requiring individualized education plans (IEPs).
As OCPS navigates these complex decisions, the future of these community schools remains uncertain. Parents, educators, and local leaders continue to stress the crucial role that schools play not only in education but also in community cohesion. The next OCPS School Board meeting is scheduled for January 13, offering a platform for further discussion before any final decisions are made.
