Norfolk, September 12, 2025
News Summary
The Norfolk School Board has approved a plan to consolidate and close 10 public schools over the next decade due to declining enrollment. With current student numbers down to approximately 26,000, the council aims to redirect savings into capital improvements for existing educational facilities. The consolidation process is projected to begin in 2027, closing one or two schools annually until 2034. Community engagement sessions are set to inform and involve stakeholders as the board finalizes its plans.
Norfolk – The Norfolk School Board has confirmed the decision to consolidate and close 10 public schools over the next decade due to declining enrollment numbers. The board plans to vote on the final consolidation plan on Wednesday, September 17, following a meeting where officials discussed details of the tentative closure of nine schools.
The consolidation aims to address a significant decrease in student enrollment, which currently stands at approximately 26,000, down from 32,000 during the 2014-2015 school year. Projections indicate that enrollment may drop even further to around 24,000 students by the start of the next school year.
The Norfolk City Council is actively involved in this initiative, having requested the school board to develop an action plan well ahead of the 2026-2027 school year. The consolidation is expected to begin systematically with one or two schools closing annually from 2027 to 2034. The overall intent is to divert the funds saved from closing these underutilized buildings into major capital improvement projects for existing schools in need of renovations, including Maury and Booker T. Washington High Schools.
A significant point in the discussions has been the future of Lindenwood Elementary, which may be repurposed into a professional development center. Additionally, Ghent School was initially exempt from closure talks, but it remains vulnerable to potential future redistricting.
The school district currently operates five high schools, six middle schools, and 30 elementary schools. Historical data indicated that Norfolk School Division has managed between 3 to 17 more schools than necessary since 2013, based on the declining population. This substantial scale of consolidation represents what could be one of the largest efforts to close or merge public schools in Virginia’s history.
Despite challenges such as escalating construction costs—and an estimated increase in the cost of renovations for Maury High School from $150 million to $250 million—the city intends to consolidate four schools and rebuild four others. Community engagement is critical, with several meetings scheduled to inform the public and discuss the consolidation’s impact on students, staff, and parents.
Concerns about the emotional impact on students being transitioned to new schools and the preservation of their sense of belonging have been raised by community members. Interim Superintendent Dr. James Pohl has confirmed that the consolidation will not lead to cuts in contracted staff; instead, staffing adjustments will occur gradually through natural attrition over time.
To better prepare the community for these significant changes, additional sessions for community engagement will take place on August 9, where parents, staff, and stakeholders can provide their input on the consolidation plan.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Why is Norfolk Public Schools consolidating and closing schools?
The consolidation is in response to declining enrollment, with the current student count falling from 32,000 to 26,000 over the past several years. The decision aims to allocate resources more effectively and invest in necessary capital improvements.
2. When will the school closures take effect?
The Norfolk School Board plans to close one or two schools each year starting from 2027 through 2034.
3. What will happen to Lindenwood Elementary?
Lindenwood Elementary is likely to be repurposed as a professional development center as part of the consolidation effort.
4. How many schools are currently in the Norfolk City Public Schools system?
Norfolk City Public Schools operates five high schools, six middle schools, and 30 elementary schools.
5. How can the community provide input on the consolidation plan?
Community engagement sessions are scheduled to allow residents, parents, and staff to voice their concerns and suggestions regarding the consolidation plan.
Key Features of the Norfolk Schools Consolidation Plan
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Number of Schools to be Closed | 10 Schools by 2034 |
| Current Enrollment | Approximately 26,000 students |
| Project Timeline | Closure of 1-2 schools per year starting in 2027 |
| Financial Contributions | City Council allocated $164.2 million for the current school year |
| Future Community Meetings | Scheduled for August 9 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Norfolk Schools Seek Extension for Controversial Consolidation Plan
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Community Concerns Over Proposed School Closures in Norfolk
Additional Resources
- WAVY News
- Wikipedia: Norfolk, Virginia
- WTKR News
- Google Search: Norfolk School Board closures
- Virginia Mercury
- Google Scholar: Norfolk School closures
- 13 News Now
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Virginia education system
- WTKR News Sunrise Brief
- Google News: Norfolk public schools
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