Norfolk, September 4, 2025
News Summary
The Norfolk School Board is exploring the closure and consolidation of ten schools due to declining enrollment. Four proposals were reviewed, targeting schools like Ghent and Tarrallton Elementary. Interim Superintendent Dr. James Pohl mentioned that community engagement sessions will be held to gather public input. Concerns about inadequate consultation have been raised, prompting the board to delay voting on the proposals as discussions continue about the future of education in Norfolk.
Norfolk School Board Considers Closure and Consolidation of Ten Schools
The Norfolk School Board is contemplating significant school closures and consolidations in response to decreasing enrollment numbers. During a meeting on Wednesday night, four draft proposals were reviewed, all aimed at reducing the number of school buildings in the district. Interim Superintendent Dr. James Pohl indicated that these discussions represent the start of a significant transition for the district.
The first proposal, known as Option One, calls for the closure of ten school buildings over the next several years, targeting schools such as Ghent School, Tarrallton Elementary, and Willoughby Early Childhood Center, with closures projected from next year until 2033. Option Two offers the potential for gap years to prepare for the rebuilding of Jacox and Suburban Park Elementary Schools. Option Three suggests a revised closure timeline for Lindenwood and PB Young elementary schools, while Option Four proposes merging Ghent School’s students with those from Lindenwood and Monroe Elementary, transferring PB Young students to Jacox, and keeping Ghent operational for additional time.
All proposals consider the planned rebuilding of Maury High School, with construction expected to begin either this school year or the next. The board has received feedback regarding concerns that certain schools would experience increased stress as a result of these plans, particularly with Option Four.
The enrollment figures for the current school year show that Lindenwood Elementary has 239 students and Monroe Elementary has 293, totaling 532. Notably, Monroe’s capacity is 563, indicating that current utilization remains below full capacity. Despite the various plans being explored, the board opted to delay voting on the proposals, and there is a possibility of scheduling a special meeting next week for further discussion.
The need for these consolidation proposals stems from ongoing enrollment declines in Norfolk, especially among elementary-aged students, with projections indicating a significant drop by 2025. A preliminary list of schools earmarked for closure includes Oceanair, St. Helena, Monroe Elementary, Lake Taylor High School, and Chesterfield Academy. Meanwhile, Maury High School, Suburban Park, and Jacox Elementary are set for rebuilding, while Sewells Point Elementary is designated for renovation.
The City Council has mandated that the Norfolk School Board develop a plan to close at least two schools per year until excess capacity issues are resolved, requiring the board’s actions to commence before the 2026-2027 academic year. The overarching goal is to address the issue of nearly empty classrooms that have emerged due to a consistent enrollment decline since 2015. Past analyses have indicated that having too many schools available has been costly for the district, projecting potential savings of up to $20 million annually if closures were implemented earlier.
Concerns have also been voiced regarding decisions being made without adequate community consultation. Parents and community members have expressed the need for greater engagement and input in the process, emphasizing the importance of a thorough review before concrete plans are finalized.
Community Engagement and Next Steps
In light of these discussions, the school board plans to host community engagement sessions to allow for public input on the proposed closures and consolidations. These sessions are crucial in ensuring that community concerns are heard and considered as plans move forward. Further discussions and potential adjustments will likely take place as the board navigates these important decisions for the future of education in Norfolk.
Key School Closure Proposals Overview
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Option One | Close 10 schools including Ghent School and Tarrallton Elementary by 2033. |
| Option Two | Gap years for planning rebuilds of Jacox and Suburban Park Elementary Schools. |
| Option Three | Revised closure schedule for Lindenwood and PB Young Elementary. |
| Option Four | Merge Ghent’s population with Lindenwood and Monroe Elementary, transfer PB Young to Jacox. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why are schools in Norfolk being considered for closure?
The closures are being proposed due to declining enrollment numbers, particularly among elementary-aged students, with projections indicating significant drops by 2025. The aim is to address the issue of nearly empty classrooms and streamline educational resources.
What are the proposed options for consolidating schools?
The school board reviewed four options: closing ten schools, allowing gap years for planning new constructions, altering closure schedules, and merging some schools’ populations while keeping others operational temporarily.
What steps are being taken to engage the community during this process?
The school board plans to host community engagement sessions to gather public input on the closure proposals and ensure community concerns are addressed before any final decisions are made.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Vermont Commission Advocates for Community Role in School Closures
Chicago High Schools Ranked Among Nation’s Best
Multiple School Districts in Middle Tennessee Announce Closures
Palm Beach County Faces Major Road Closures Due to Train Track Repairs
Norfolk Schools Seek Extension for Controversial Consolidation Plan
Middle Tennessee School Districts Close or Delay Start Times Due to Icy Conditions
Community Concerns Over Proposed School Closures in Norfolk
Additional Resources
- WTKR: Norfolk School Leaders Look at Plans for School Closures
- Wikipedia: Norfolk, Virginia
- WAVY: Norfolk School Board Releases List of Proposed School Closures
- Google Search: Norfolk school closures
- 13NewsNow: List of Norfolk Schools Closing
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education in the United States
- Pilot Online: Norfolk School Closure More Time
- Google News: Norfolk school board
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