Norfolk, August 5, 2025
News Summary
Norfolk Public Schools officials are requesting an extension from the City Council until September 19 to finalize a controversial plan to close and consolidate 10 schools. This extension aims to gather more community input amid significant public criticism of the original proposals. The City Council will discuss this request following the summer break, and a final vote on the school closure plan is scheduled before the start of the next school year. Community meetings are planned to address concerns as declining student enrollment continues to shape these decisions.
Norfolk – Norfolk Public Schools officials are seeking a deadline extension from the City Council until September 19 to finalize a controversial plan for the closure and consolidation of 10 schools. This request, made by School Board Chair Sarah Dicalogero and Interim Superintendent James Pohl, is driven by a desire for additional community input on the proposed alterations to the educational landscape of Norfolk.
The initial deadline for the school closure plan, established by the Norfolk City Council, was set for August 1 following a resolution passed in March. This resolution imposes punitive measures against the school board should they fail to submit the required plan by the stipulated date. In response to public outcry and feedback, the school district has been reassessing its consolidation strategy for the past several months.
The preliminary list of schools targeted for closure includes:
- Ghent School
- Tarrallton Elementary School
- Willoughby Early Childhood Center
- P. B. Young Sr. Elementary School
- Lindenwood Elementary School
- Granby Elementary School
- Berkley Campostella Early Childhood Education Center
- Norview Elementary School
- The Southeastern Cooperative Educational Programs Center
- Norfolk Technical Center
Community input sessions held by the school district have revealed significant criticism regarding the initial plans, with many residents expressing anxiety about the implications for students and the surrounding neighborhoods. In light of these sentiments, Norfolk Mayor Kenny Alexander has expressed his support for the request to postpone the deadline to allow for greater community engagement.
The City Council will convene to discuss this extension request on August 26, after the summer break. Concurrently, there are plans for closing and demolishing Ghent School to facilitate the construction of a new 4,000-seat football stadium as part of the Maury High School reconstruction project. The City Council has also delayed voting on a $214.9 million design and construction agreement associated with the high school’s redevelopment.
To further address community concerns, two additional public input sessions are scheduled for Saturday at the Norfolk Scope during a Unity in the Community back-to-school event. The School Board has slated a final vote on the school closure plan for September 17.
This school consolidation plan is a component of broader efforts to manage declining student enrollment. Norfolk is projected to see a decrease in student numbers from 31,176 in 2010 to an estimated 24,459 by 2025, translating to a drop of over 21%. A report commissioned by a consultant indicated that the Norfolk school district currently operates 3 to 17 more schools than necessary and could save approximately $20 million annually through the closure of excess facilities.
While some community members advocate for prioritizing their local needs, others recognize the necessity of consolidation to adapt to changing demographics. Implementation of the consolidation plan is slated to begin before the 2026-2027 school year, with a goal to close at least two schools annually until the issue of excess capacity is resolved.
FAQ Section
What is the Norfolk Public Schools requesting from the City Council?
They are requesting an extension until September 19 to finalize a closure and consolidation plan for 10 schools.
Why is the extension needed?
The extension is sought to allow for additional community input and engagement regarding the proposed school closures.
What schools are proposed for closure?
The list includes Ghent School, Tarrallton Elementary School, Willoughby Early Childhood Center, P. B. Young Sr. Elementary School, Lindenwood Elementary School, Granby Elementary School, Berkley Campostella Early Childhood Education Center, Norview Elementary School, the Southeastern Cooperative Educational Programs Center, and Norfolk Technical Center.
What is the background context for these closures?
Norfolk is experiencing falling student enrollment, projected to decrease from 31,176 students in 2010 to 24,459 by 2025. A consultant’s report indicated that the district operates more schools than necessary and could save significant amounts by closing excess facilities.
When is the final vote on the school closure plan scheduled?
The School Board’s final vote is scheduled for September 17.
Key Features of the School Closure Plan
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Schools Proposed for Closure | 10 |
| Initial Deadline for Plan | August 1 |
| Requested Extension Deadline | September 19 |
| Final Vote Date | September 17 |
| Projected Student Enrollment Decrease | From 31,176 in 2010 to 24,459 by 2025 |
| Estimated Annual Savings from Closures | $20 million |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Middle Tennessee School Districts Close or Delay Start Times Due to Icy Conditions
Community Concerns Over Proposed School Closures in Norfolk
Additional Resources
- Pilot Online: Norfolk School Closure Update
- Wikipedia: Norfolk, Virginia
- 13 News Now: List of Norfolk Schools Closing
- Google Search: Norfolk Schools Closure
- WAVY: Norfolk School Board Proposed Closures
- Google Scholar: Norfolk School Closures
- Virginia Mercury: Norfolk School Board Action Plan
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Public Education
- WTKR: Norfolk Schools Closure Plan Unveiled
- Google News: Norfolk Public Schools
