Metro School Board Doesn’t Plan to Close Schools, But Hasn’t Ruled It Out, Either

Stratford High School, one of twelve schools on MNPS Director Jesse Register’s list of potential closures. (credit: MNPS)

The Metro School Board does not have plans to close any schools right now, but that doesn’t mean the idea won’t come up later.

The board is facing a $15 million shortfall, based on a budget proposed by Schools Director Jesse Register. Months ago, Register suggested saving money by closing schools with enrollments that are below seventy percent capacity.

But board member Jill Speering says closings will only be explored as a last resort.

“When a school closes in a community, it hurts the whole community and that is not our desire.”

Mayor Karl Dean has told the school system it will not receive a dramatic increase in funding for next year. He says Metro Schools can’t expect a “blank check.”

The MNPS budget will be finalized on April 8^th before Mayor Dean’s budget hearing a week later.

The board meets Tuesday night to discuss its funding plan.