The Richardson Independent School District is set to close four elementary schools starting next year and a Pre-K campus starting the following school year as part of its “Project RightSize.” NBC 5’s Ben Russell has the details.
The Richardson Independent School District plans to close four elementary schools and a Pre-K campus as part of its “Project RightSize” plan to respond to declining enrollment and lack of state funding.
The district said four elementary schools – Greenwood Hills, Springridge, Spring Valley, and Thurgood Marshall – will be consolidated into other elementary schools in the district starting in the 2024-2025 school year. The newly proposed attendance zones can be found here.
The Dobie Pre-Kindergarten campus will be closed completely beginning in 2025-2026.
Project RightSize is the result of months of planning, according to Superintendent Dr. Tabitha Branum.
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“When I think about the role of a superintendent and the things that weigh on your heart, and on your mind, tonight‘s conversation is probably one of the hardest conversations that I’ve had to lead to this point, and may in a long time, in my career,” Branum said at the outset of the announcement Thursday.
Two main factors brought this major change about – declining enrollment and a lack of funding from Texas legislators.
On any given day, there are more than 9,000 empty seats in Richardson ISD classrooms, according to figures released by the district. The elementary schools in question are each at less than 60% capacity.
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Project RightSize “would reduce operating expenditures by an estimated $10.8 million per year,” according to a Richardson ISD news release.
Starting next week, the school district will host informational meetings for parents of kids impacted by the changes:
Elementary school impact in Pearce Learning Community
Feb. 26, Pearce High School Commons Area – 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Elementary school impact in Berkner Learning Community
Feb. 27, Berkner High School Auditorium – 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Elementary school impact in Richardson Learning Community
Feb. 28, Richardson High School Auditorium – 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Elementary school impact in Lake Highlands Learning Community
March 4, Lake Highlands High School H Building Auditorium – 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Dobie Pre-Kindergarten School Impact
March 5, RISD Academy – 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
