Norfolk, September 12, 2025
News Summary
The Norfolk School Board has approved a plan to close and merge 10 public schools over the next decade in response to declining enrollment. A formal vote is set for September 17 to finalize the details. Current student numbers have dropped significantly, prompting the board to consider closing one or two schools each year from 2027 to 2034. The city council has allocated $164.2 million in funding to support the school division during this transitional period, emphasizing the need for efficient resource use while maintaining educational quality.
Norfolk – The Norfolk School Board has confirmed a consolidation plan that aims to close and merge 10 public schools over the coming decade. A formal vote on the plan is scheduled for September 17, where board members will finalize their decision following extensive discussion on the implications of such a large-scale change. The consolidation is an effort to address significant enrollment declines while ensuring efficient use of resources.
Leaders on the School Board have acknowledged that current enrollment figures in Norfolk Public Schools have receded to approximately 26,000 students, a stark decrease from about 32,000 students in the 2014-2015 school year. Projections indicate that enrollment may further decrease to around 24,000 by next school year. In light of these trends, the board plans to close one or two schools annually starting in 2027 and continuing through 2034.
As part of the plan, officials discussed a tentative closure or consolidation of nine schools during a recent board meeting. One proposed change involves repurposing Lindenwood Elementary into a professional development center. Additionally, while Ghent School was not included in immediate closure discussions, it may face implications from future redistricting efforts.
The Norfolk City Council has been proactively involved in the school consolidation process, requesting the Norfolk School Board to create an action plan by the beginning of the 2026-2027 school year. This consolidation is intended to free up funds that can be reinvested into necessary capital improvements and maintenance projects at existing facilities, particularly at Maury and Booker T. Washington High Schools.
In support of the school division, the Norfolk City Council allotted $164.2 million in funding for the current school year, excluding capital project funding. The council’s resolution has emphasized the importance of closing underutilized facilities in order to prioritize budgetary savings and improve educational quality. In light of operational analysis since 2013, it has been established that the division manages between 3 to 17 more schools than needed based on its student population.
Given the scale of the planned school closures, this consolidation effort could go down as one of the largest such actions in Virginia’s history. The proposed plan also includes rebuilding four schools, including Maury High School, which has experienced rising construction costs that escalated from $150 million to $250 million.
The board has addressed community concerns regarding the emotional effects on students and a sense of belonging during the transition to new schools. Community engagement sessions have been introduced, including one held on August 9, to provide an opportunity for discussions focusing on the impacts of the consolidation on students, staff, and parents. Further sessions are expected as part of the ongoing effort to gather input and foster open communication. Interim Superintendent Dr. James Pohl has clarified that no contracted staff positions will be cut as a direct result of consolidation, with staffing adjustments anticipated through natural attrition over time.
This consolidation move comes at a critical time for Norfolk Public Schools as it seeks to adapt to dwindling enrollment numbers while ensuring educational resources are effectively allocated. The School Board aims to not only enhance the quality of education but also to foster a sustainable environment for the future of Norfolk’s students.
FAQ Section
What is the Norfolk School Board’s consolidation plan?
The consolidation plan involves the closure and merging of 10 schools over the next decade, initiated due to declining student enrollment and the need for efficient resource allocation.
When will the formal vote on the consolidation plan take place?
A formal vote is expected to occur on September 17.
How many schools are expected to close each year?
The school board plans to close one or two schools per year, starting in 2027 through 2034.
How much funding has the Norfolk City Council allocated to the school division this year?
The Norfolk City Council contributed $164.2 million to the school division for the current school year, excluding capital project costs.
Key Features of the Consolidation Plan
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Number of Schools to Close | 10 schools by 2033 |
| Annual Closure Rate | 1-2 schools per year starting from 2027 |
| Current Enrollment | Approximately 26,000 students, projected to decline to 24,000 |
| City Council Funding | $164.2 million allocated for the current school year |
| Future Plans for Schools | Rebuilding four schools, including Maury High School |
| Community Engagement | Ongoing discussions and input sessions scheduled |
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Additional Resources
- WAVY News
- Wikipedia: Norfolk, Virginia
- WTKR News
- Google Search: Norfolk School Board closures
- Virginia Mercury
- Google Scholar: Norfolk School closures
- 13 News Now
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Virginia education system
- WTKR News Sunrise Brief
- Google News: Norfolk public schools
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