Q: When will a final decision be made regarding consolidation or closure?
A: The district is currently working to finalize the timeline for decision-making. We understand the anxiety this causes, and we are committed to communicating the final decision as soon as it is reached to ensure families and staff have adequate time to prepare for the following school year.

Q: When would these changes go into effect? Is it immediate?
A: Implementation dates will be communicated as soon as they are set. The district aims to provide ample notice to minimize disruption to students and staff. This would not happen during the current school year.

Q: How will we be notified of the decision?
A: All updates and final decisions will be shared through official district channels, including ParentSquare messages and emails to families and staff, community meetings, and the district website.

Q: Where will my child go to school?
A: If a school is consolidated or closed, student assignments will be determined through the district’s formal rezoning process, which involves a comprehensive review of school capacities, geographic boundaries, and neighborhood alignments to ensure balanced enrollment. Families would be notified of their new zoned school once the rezoning process is complete.

Q: Will transportation be provided to the new school?
A: Students are eligible for transportation if they live more than 2 miles from their assigned school. Routes and safety conditions for walkers will be reviewed to ensure students can safely and reliably attend their new school.

Q: Will students be able to stay with their current teachers or classmates?
A: No school consolidations would take place during the current school year, so all students will remain with their current teachers and classmates for the remainder of the year.. 

Q: Why is our school being targeted when there are new schools being built nearby?
A: Decisions regarding consolidation are based on multiple factors, including current and projected enrollment decline in specific older neighborhoods, facility capacity, and the cost of maintaining under-enrolled facilities. New schools are often built in areas of rapid population growth, which may differ from areas experiencing enrollment decline.

Q: Is this consolidation happening to make room for charter schools?
A: The district is exploring all options for facility usage. Any agreements regarding facility use or co-location are reviewed based on district policy and community needs.

Q: If my school closes or consolidates, will I lose my job?
A: The district’s goal is to retain current staff. We are committed to supporting staff through transitions, including reassignment opportunities and job placement assistance within other OCPS schools. All staffing changes, reassignments, and transfers will adhere strictly to the provisions outlined in the CTA (Classroom Teachers Association) and OESPA (Orange Education Support Professionals Association) contracts.

Q: Do I get a choice in where I am reassigned?
A: Staff preferences will be considered during the reassignment process; however, final placement will depend on district-wide needs, vacancies, and staff qualifications. The procedures for these placements will follow the guidelines set forth in the applicable CTA and OESPA contracts.

Q: What about support staff, paraprofessionals, and specialized unit teachers?
A: All employees, including support staff and those in self-contained or specialized units, will be supported in finding new positions. Staff in specialized units (such as ASD or ESE) will be prioritized for placement in similar roles to ensure continuity of services for students.