D51 faces potential school closures

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. (KKCO) - Many school districts across the country are facing declining student enrollment, and District 51 is not exception.

In addition to declining student enrollment, other issues D51 faces include unsustainable staffing, difficulties providing adequate student services, underutilizing facilities and increased safety risks.

Because of this, the Board of Education is deciding whether to close a number of schools at the end of the current school year.

The demographer recommended that the schools impacted would include two elementary schools and one middle school. The schools considered are:

• Lincoln Orchard Mesa Elementary
• Orchard Ave. Elementary
• East Middle School

On Feb. 21, at a Board of Education meeting, the board will review the demographer’s recommendations for consolidations.

District 51 wants to remind families that no final decision has been made at this time.

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