SALEM, Ore. — Salem-Keizer Public Schools is recommending the closure of six elementary schools for the 2027–28 school year, setting the stage for months of discussion among families, educators and district leaders.
The proposed closures include Brush College, Candalaria, Cummings, Englewood, Liberty and Richmond elementary schools. District officials cite declining student enrollment, aging facilities and the need to better distribute educational resources.
The proposal also includes preliminary attendance boundary changes affecting multiple schools. District estimates indicate that about 250 staff members could be affected by the proposed closures and boundary adjustments.
The recommendation comes as the district faces a projected $46 million budget shortfall for the next school year. District leaders have said the closure process is intended primarily to address long-term enrollment and school-operating challenges, rather than serve as a quick budget fix.
The Salem-Keizer School Board is scheduled to discuss the proposal on October 13, with a final decision on the closures expected December 8. Families and community members will have opportunities to provide input before the board votes.
If approved, the closures would take effect in fall 2027. Attendance boundary decisions are expected to be finalized in February 2027.
For families, the coming months will be important for understanding potential school assignments, transportation arrangements and how students will transition to new campuses.
