LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) — Jefferson County Public Schools heard from parents Monday for the first time since unveiling its plan to close or consolidate several schools.
Parents and students told JCPS Superintendent Dr. Brian Yearwood directly they believe there will be detrimental impacts to children because of this plan.
The district is proposing major changes to several schools — closing Liberty High School and Zachary Taylor Elementary, moving Waller-Williams Environmental and TAPP, and merging King Elementary into Maupin.
District leaders said they used the “Facility Profile Index” to make these decisions. It ranks every JCPS building based on its condition, operating costs, and enrollment.
At Monday’s meeting, district operations officials clarified that they did not consider student outcomes, which is something parents and students said is at the heart of their frustration with the plan.
“Dr. Yearwood it is my question to you: Why are you messing with our children,” Michael Thomas Sr. said. “We are prepared to go to war — we will not play with you when it comes to our babies.”
JCPS said the proposal would save about $4 million before selling any land tied to these schools.
All feedback from these meetings will be compiled into a report for the board. Nothing can move forward without board approval. That vote is set for Dec. 9.
“Does the money that the district saves by closing Liberty go to their students,” Jill Camuel said.
A former board member said these feedback meetings are too early and too short, making it hard for families to attend and have meaningful conversations.
There are two more feedback meetings scheduled for Tuesday, Dec. 2, from 5-6 p.m. at the JCPS Center for Professional Learning and Wednesday, Dec. 3, from 5-6 p.m. at Academy @ Shawnee.
More Coverage:
Full list shows JCPS schools considered for closure, updates
JCPS withdraws proposal to change start times after receiving feedback from families, staff
JCPS recommends closing 2 schools, moving others as it faces $188 million budget shortfall
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