Evanston, October 15, 2025
News Summary
The Evanston Skokie School District 65 is dealing with a potential budget deficit of $15 million, prompting discussions about possible school closures. Key schools at risk include Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Literacy and Fine Arts School, Lincolnwood, Kingsley, and Washington. Parents have raised concerns about the impact on community and specialized programming, resulting in a petition for the resignation of school board president Sergio Hernandez. As a new board president is elected and a committee is formed, critical decisions regarding the district’s future are expected this November.
Evanston
The Evanston Skokie School District 65 is confronting a significant financial crisis, with projections estimating a budget deficit of up to $15 million for the upcoming year. In response to these financial challenges, the school board recently convened a special meeting to explore potential school closures, considering the implications of declining enrollment rates and shrinking budgets.
During the meeting, board members evaluated options for addressing the budget shortfall, including the closure of several schools. The schools potentially facing closure include Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Literacy and Fine Arts School, as well as neighborhood schools Lincolnwood, Kingsley, and Washington. Currently, the district has already taken steps to reduce staffing levels and has made a decision to close Bessie Rhodes Elementary after this school year.
Concerns voiced by parents during the meeting centered around the impact that potential school closures may have on neighborhood communities and students in specialized programming. Parents have expressed apprehension that hasty decisions on closures might not yield the desired improvement in financial stability and educational outcomes. Over 300 parents have signed a petition urging school board president Sergio Hernandez to resign, reflecting a climate of dissatisfaction regarding current board leadership and decision-making processes.
In light of these developments, the board has formed a committee to guide discussions on the budget crisis and evaluate which schools might be targeted for closure. Critical decisions regarding the future of the schools are expected to occur in November. As plans develop, parents are being encouraged to participate in feedback sessions scheduled for Tuesday and Wednesday, to voice their opinions on the district’s direction.
Another notable development during this tumultuous meeting was Scott Hernandez’s announcement of his resignation as board president. This comes in the wake of the indictment of former superintendent Devon Horton, who faces 17 counts, including wire fraud and tax evasion. Following Hernandez’s departure, board member Patricia S. Anderson was elected as the new president and has committed to addressing financial challenges and fostering equity within the district.
The challenges faced by Evanston Skokie School District 65 are compounded by the broader context of declining student enrollment, which has put additional strain on the district’s finances. As the situation evolves, the need for transparent management of funds and staffing levels is at the forefront of discussions among stakeholders.
As the district navigates these significant changes, both parents and community members are looking for assurances that their feedback will be duly considered in the decision-making process surrounding potential school closures. The upcoming discussions will be pivotal in shaping the future of education in the district.
Key Facts Recap
- Budget deficit projected at $15 million for the coming year.
- Potential school closures include Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Literacy and Fine Arts School and others.
- Parent concerns over the impact on neighborhood schools and specialized learners.
- Decision expected in November; feedback sessions planned.
- New board president Patricia S. Anderson aims to improve financial situation and equity.
FAQ Section
What is the main financial issue facing Evanston Skokie School District 65?
The district is facing a budget deficit of $15 million for the upcoming year.
Which schools are being considered for closure?
Schools potentially facing closure include Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Literacy and Fine Arts School, Lincolnwood, Kingsley, and Washington.
When will a decision about school closures be made?
A decision regarding the future of the schools is expected to be made in November.
Who is the new president of the school board?
The new president of the board is Patricia S. Anderson, who aims to focus on improving the district’s financial situation.
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Additional Resources
- ABC 7 Chicago
- Wikipedia: Evanston, Illinois
- NBC Chicago
- Google Search: Evanston Skokie School District 65
- Evanston RoundTable
- Google Scholar: Evanston Skokie School District budget deficit
- Daily Northwestern
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School closures
- Evanston Now
- Google News: Evanston School District 65 closure
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