Evanston, October 11, 2025
News Summary
Over 100 parents and caregivers gathered at Washington Elementary School to express concerns about potential school closures in the Evanston/Skokie District 65. The advocacy group, ‘Save Washington,’ along with speakers at a recent board meeting, raised alarms about the rapid timeline for decision-making. With a critical vote approaching, the community is calling for greater transparency and consideration of the impacts on all students, especially those at Title I schools. The district faces a significant budget deficit, creating urgency around discussions of school closures.
Evanston – Over 100 parents and caregivers congregated at Washington Elementary School recently to voice their concerns regarding the imminent school closure process within Evanston/Skokie District 65. The fervor surrounding this issue has resulted in the formation of a community advocacy group known as “Save Washington,” comprised of at least 28 members dedicated to ensuring that the needs of the community are prioritized in the school board’s forthcoming decisions.
During a board meeting held on September 29, organizers from Save Washington raised multiple concerns about the closure scenarios and the timeline presented, noting that the decision-making process is significantly compressed. The school board is expected to vote on the proposed closures on November 17, which will officially start the public hearing proceedings for each school identified for closure.
At the meeting, Washington Elementary’s PTA President stressed that while Washington is a point of focus, the issues at play affect all students in the district. Parents and caregivers from Dawes and Oakton Elementary schools were invited to join the discussion to broaden the dialogue regarding the potential impacts of school closures within the entire district.
Many attending the meeting expressed support for the “Invest in Neighborhood Schools” initiative and called for greater involvement from Washington families in cross-district coalition building. Parents raised concerns that closing Washington Elementary could undermine the district’s commitment to equity, citing its status as one of seven Title I schools that serve a high percentage of low-income students.
Washington Elementary is home to two significant programs: a two-way immersion (TWI) English and Spanish learning program, and the Structured Teaching Education Program (STEP) designed for autism support. Parents highlighted the positive impact of these programs and expressed opposition to any budgetary decisions that might detrimentally affect student services. Additionally, concerns were voiced about the representation of marginalized voices, particularly amid ongoing discussions around recent immigration issues that have affected the community.
Adding to the atmosphere of distrust surrounding the district’s financial decisions, one parent recalled the recent indictment of a former District 65 superintendent for embezzlement and fraud, which occurred on the same day as the meeting. City council members have begun to weigh in on the issue, underscoring the need for collaboration between city officials and District 65 to reconcile differing population projections and financial planning objectives.
Current enrollments at District 65 indicate a decline in student numbers, while the city’s growth plans counter these projections, creating a complex discussion about how to adequately prepare for future student needs. The district faces a projected budget deficit of $10-$15 million by the year 2027, prompting considerations of school closures as a measure to counteract declining enrollment and fiscal instability.
Some board members have called for detailed evaluations of the proposed closure scenarios and have expressed an intention to increase transparency throughout the decision-making process. A special school board meeting has been scheduled for October 8 at the Joseph E. Hill Early Childhood Education Center to facilitate further public commentary regarding the closure scenarios.
Community members are advocating for a more measured approach to any school closures, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful consideration of the long-term implications of the board’s decisions. The dialogue continues as the school board approaches its critical vote in November.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the Save Washington group?
The Save Washington group aims to ensure that the community’s needs are prioritized in the decision-making process regarding school closures within District 65.
When is the school board expected to vote on proposed school closures?
The school board is scheduled to vote on November 17 on pursuing scenarios for school closures, which will initiate the public hearing process.
What are some of the programs offered at Washington Elementary?
Washington Elementary hosts a two-way immersion (TWI) English and Spanish learning program as well as the Structured Teaching Education Program (STEP) for autism support.
What financial challenges is District 65 currently facing?
District 65 is projected to have a budget deficit of $10-$15 million by 2027, prompting discussions about potential school closures as a means to address financial instability.
How is the community responding to the proposed school closures?
The community is demanding a slower, more deliberate approach to school closures, advocating for thorough consideration of the long-term implications of the board’s decisions.
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Additional Resources
- Evanston RoundTable: District 65 Calls Special Meeting for Oct 8 to Discuss School Closures
- Wikipedia: Education in the United States
- Evanston Now: Horton Indictment Hangs Over School Closing Process
- Google Search: Evanston school closures
- Evanston RoundTable: Save Washington School Closure
- Google Scholar: School Closure Impact
- Evanston Now: Board Leaning Towards at Least Two School Closings
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Closure
- Evanston RoundTable: District 65 School Closure Recommendations
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