ELGIN, Ill. (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- The state’s second largest school district, is looking at closing six schools amid declining enrollment.
Three elementary schools on the potential closure list are well over a century old: McKinley, Washington and Lowrie. All three are located in Elgin. Century Oaks in Elgin and Glenbrook and Hanover Countryside elementary schools in Streamwood are also on the list for potential closures.
U-46 district leaders presented recommendations to the school board earlier this week that McKinley, Washington, and Lowrie close in June of 2027. They also suggested some schools would be rebuilt while Century Oaks, Glenbrook, and Hanover Countryside close sometime later.
In an email to District U-46 families, Deputy Superintendent of Operations Ann Williams said: “We know this is difficult news for many of our staff, students, families and community members. However, we are committed to providing safe, modern learning environments for all of our students.”
The district anticipates the closures could save millions of dollars and said staff members, who currently serve at those schools could work at its other schools.
District officials said that declining enrollment and the age of the buildings are reasons for recommending the closures. Data presented to school board members showed a 20% decline in elementary school enrollment from five years ago, the Daily Herald reports.
The board of education could vote on the recommendations in early Februray.
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