Salem-Keizer Public Schools is facing renewed questions about its plan to close six elementary schools, as district leaders defend a decision-making process that does not use academic performance as a factor in selecting schools for closure.
The proposal, which would take effect in 2027, includes Brush College Elementary in west Salem, Candalaria and Liberty elementary schools in south Salem, Richmond Elementary in southeast Salem, Englewood Elementary in northeast Salem and Cummings Elementary in Keizer.
District officials have said declining enrollment is the primary reason for the proposed closures. Salem-Keizer has approximately 5,000 fewer students than it did at its enrollment peak eight years ago, and officials expect the decline to continue.
Superintendent Andrea Castañeda has argued that using academic performance to determine which schools should close would create equity concerns. District leaders say they have tried to develop a plan that considers the effects on historically underserved students and avoids disproportionately affecting students of color and English-language learners.
However, the proposal has prompted questions about why some schools with strong academic results are included on the closure list. Critics argue that academic performance should be part of the evaluation and that the district should examine what successful schools are doing before deciding to close them.
The proposal also includes a preliminary boundary adjustment affecting 16 schools. District officials estimate that fewer than 2,000 students and approximately 250 staff members would be directly affected.
The district has said the changes could help consolidate resources, reduce the number of classrooms combining different grade levels and provide teachers with more opportunities to collaborate.
Financial pressures are also part of the broader picture. Salem-Keizer has been dealing with significant budget challenges, although district leaders have said the proposed closures are primarily intended to align school facilities and staffing with declining enrollment rather than produce immediate savings.
The school board is scheduled to vote on the closure proposal December 8. If approved, the affected schools would close in June 2027.
What happens next: Community input and the school board’s final decision will determine whether the proposal moves forward. Families with students at the affected schools are likely to be watching closely for information about future school assignments and transition plans.
