Waukesha, September 11, 2025
News Summary
The Waukesha School Board is deliberating the potential closure of four elementary schools—Bethesda, Hawthorne, Prairie, and Lowell—due to declining student enrollment. Current enrollment stands at approximately 10,500, a significant decrease from over 13,000 a decade ago. Parents are expressing concern over the impact of these closures on their children, especially for students with special needs. The board plans to hold a meeting to discuss the issue further, with a final decision expected by the end of the year and changes set for implementation in fall 2026.
Waukesha – The Waukesha School Board is contemplating the closure of four elementary schools due to a significant decrease in student enrollment. The schools identified for potential closure are Bethesda, Hawthorne, Prairie, and Lowell Elementary. This potential decision has raised concerns among parents and community members who are worried about the implications of the closures on their children and the education system in general.
Recent data indicates that the district’s enrollment has dropped from over 13,000 students in the 2012-13 school year to approximately 10,500 currently. Projections reveal a continuing decline, with estimates suggesting enrollment may fall to as low as 8,776 students by 2034. In response, the school district is looking to reduce building capacity by 10% to 15% to align with the declining enrollment trends.
Parents of students at Lowell Elementary are particularly vocal about their concerns. Cassandra, a 10-year-old student with special needs, has attended Lowell since she was three years old. Her father has expressed worries about how a potential closure would affect his daughter, who faces multiple disabilities, including cerebral palsy and epilepsy. The closure could force families to drive their children to school instead of the current convenience of walking.
During a recent morning drop-off at Lowell Elementary, several parents gathered to voice their frustrations about the proposed closures. Among them was a group of mothers, including an outspoken individual who highlighted the critical role that neighborhood schools play in their community. The school board’s decision-making process has left many families feeling unsettled as they await confirmation of their children’s educational future.
In July, the Waukesha School District presented four options to address the declining enrollment, which include redistricting, grade shifts, and the aforementioned potential closures. Additionally, plans have been proposed to sell district properties and revise the existing dual language program as part of the restructuring effort. Bethesda Elementary has been specifically mentioned in multiple options for closure, further intensifying community anxiety.
Community members are urging the school district to reevaluate the enrollment data, citing discrepancies that could disproportionately impact low-income students. No final decisions regarding school closures are anticipated until a scheduled board meeting at 6 p.m. at the Blair Administration Building. The board has reassured families that further analysis and consideration will take place before any conclusions are reached.
Ultimately, the Waukesha School Board aims to finalize decisions regarding school consolidations by the end of the calendar year, with any resulting changes set to be implemented in the fall of 2026. The discussions surrounding school closures serve as a crucial reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by the educational system in adapting to shifts in community needs and demographics.
Key Facts
- The Waukesha School Board is considering closing Bethesda, Hawthorne, Prairie, and Lowell Elementary due to declining enrollment.
- Current enrollment stands at approximately 10,500 students, down from over 13,000 ten years ago.
- Community concerns focus on the impact of closures on local families and potential increased travel for students.
- The board’s final decision is anticipated by the end of the year, with changes expected to take effect in fall 2026.
FAQ
What schools are being considered for closure?
The schools under consideration for closure are Bethesda, Hawthorne, Prairie, and Lowell Elementary.
Why is the Waukesha School Board considering these closures?
The Board is considering closures due to a significant decline in student enrollment, which has dropped from over 13,000 to about 10,500 in recent years.
When can we expect a final decision on the school closures?
A final decision by the Waukesha School Board is expected by the end of the calendar year, with any changes set to be implemented in fall 2026.
Key Features Summary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Schools Considered for Closure | Bethesda, Hawthorne, Prairie, Lowell |
| Current Enrollment | Approximately 10,500 students |
| Projected Enrollment by 2034 | As low as 8,776 students |
| Meeting for Final Decision | Planned for late 2023 |
| Implementation of Changes | Fall 2026 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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Additional Resources
- WISN: Waukesha School Board Considers Elementary School Closures
- Wikipedia: Waukesha, Wisconsin
- Jsonline: Waukesha School District Plans School Closures
- Google Search: Waukesha school closures
- TMJ4: Waukesha Families Speak Out on School Closures
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Waukesha
- Fox 6 Now: Waukesha School Closures and Parent Concerns
- Google News: Waukesha school district
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