SALEM, Ore. — Salem-Keizer Public Schools is recommending the closure of six elementary schools beginning in fall 2027, citing declining enrollment and the need to maintain sustainable learning conditions across the district.
The proposed closures include Brush College, Candalaria, Cummings, Englewood, Liberty and Richmond elementary schools. The recommendation was announced Oct. 9 and would affect schools in Salem and Keizer.
District officials also proposed changes to attendance boundaries involving 16 schools. Approximately 2,000 students and 250 staff members could be affected by the proposed changes, according to local reporting.
The district plans to present its recommendations to the school board on Oct. 13. Board members are expected to make a final decision on the proposed closures Dec. 8.
Families and community members will have opportunities to ask questions and share concerns during listening sessions scheduled at several middle schools throughout Salem and Keizer in October.
If approved, the closures and related boundary changes would take effect for the 2027-28 school year. The district says the process is intended to address enrollment declines and improve conditions for teaching and learning at the schools that remain open.
Sources: Salem-Keizer Public Schools; Salem Reporter; Oregon Public Broadcasting.
