Scottsdale Unified is considering school closures as it faces declining enrollment

The Scottsdale Unified School District is considering school closures as it faces declining enrollment. At a governing board meeting on Tuesday, the district presented three plans for potential consolidations or closures.

The district's enrollment has declined 23% over the last 10 years. Superintendent Scott Menzel said there is an excess of space not filled by students, and the state is not providing support to offset the loss of funds.

Under one of the proposals, Laguna Prep and Copper Ridge would close.

Carolyn Walsh, parent of a Laguna Prep student, expressed concern over the data presented on campus utilization.

“Laguna Prep’s capacity was presented at 638 students when actual capacity was 891 students,” Walsh said. “In other words, options that may have kept Laguna open were removed from consideration based on incorrect data. ”

Laguna parents also spoke to board members about the convenience of students being able to walk to the Boys & Girls Club for after school care.

After hearing from the public, board member Amy Carney said she would like to revisit the proposed options.

A public hearing is scheduled for Sept. 22. The governing board plans to make a decision in October.

EDITOR'S NOTE: This story and headline have been corrected to accurately reflect the Scottsdale Unified School District’s proposals.