Evanston, IL, October 2, 2025
News Summary
The Evanston/Skokie District 65 Board of Education is deliberating the closure of three elementary schools due to a financial crisis, which includes a significant decline in enrollment. The board discussed various scenarios, estimating potential savings of $9.18 million annually if closures are approved. Community feedback is encouraged during upcoming meetings, as the board aims for a decision in November, reflecting on the importance of transparency and the potential impact on students and staff.
Evanston, IL – The Evanston/Skokie District 65 Board of Education is considering the closure of three elementary schools—Kingsley Elementary, Lincolnwood Elementary, and either Dawes or Washington—as part of a strategy to mitigate a significant financial crisis stemming from a structural deficit.
During a recent meeting, the Board discussed seven potential scenarios for school closures, which included the possibility of closing up to four schools, with the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Literary and Fine Arts School also mentioned as a candidate. While no final decision was reached during this meeting, Board members indicated they could come to a decision as early as November.
If the closures are approved, it is estimated that the district could save approximately $9.18 million annually. The financial strain on District 65 is compounded by a 20% decline in student enrollment since 2018, which has led to budget shortfalls and operational inefficiencies. Currently, the district’s school buildings are functioning at only 58% capacity on average and require about $188 million in repairs.
Upcoming meetings have been scheduled to gather community feedback regarding the proposed closures, including sessions at Chute Middle School on October 14th, Fleetwood-Jourdain Community Center on October 15th, and Nichols Middle School on October 15th. The Board’s financial consultant stated that historical budget deficits have resulted in a critically low reserve balance, which does not meet state targets.
Concerns have emerged from parents and community members over the rapid decision-making process and its potential impact on students and educators. As the timeline stands, the Board aims to conduct public comment sessions before potentially voting on the school closures in November. Should the recommended scenarios be pursued, the Board will begin reorganizing school attendance boundaries to reflect the closures.
Board members have underscored the need for increased transparency and community engagement in decision-making processes regarding the future of schools. The district intends to carry on discussions evaluating the implications of closures on staffing, student needs, and community effects.
Kingsley and Lincolnwood were frequently mentioned in closure recommendations, with Lincolnwood projected to have the smallest enrollment under the new attendance boundaries set for implementation in August 2026. The possible reduction in operational costs due to school closures raises significant concerns about potential job losses for educators and staff, as well as the overall impact on the community.
Key Figures and Facts
- Projected Savings: $9.18 million annually
- Current Enrollment Decline: 20% since 2018
- Current Building Capacity: 58%
- Estimated Repair Costs: $188 million
- Public Feedback Sessions: October 14th (Chute Middle) and October 15th (Fleetwood-Jourdain & Nichols Middle)
- Anticipated Decision Date: November
Conclusion
The financial challenges facing the Evanston/Skokie District 65 are forcing the Board of Education to explore the possibility of closing elementary schools to stabilize its budget. As the situation develops, the district emphasizes the importance of community feedback and careful considerations regarding the future of its schools.
FAQ
Why is District 65 considering closing schools?
District 65 is facing a financial crisis characterized by a structural deficit, resulting from a significant decline in student enrollment and budget shortfalls.
How much money could the school closures save the district?
The proposed school closures could save the district approximately $9.18 million annually.
When will the final decision on school closures be made?
The Board of Education anticipates making a final decision on the school closures as early as November.
Key Features Chart
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Projected Savings | $9.18 million annually |
| Student Enrollment Decline | 20% since 2018 |
| Capacity of Buildings | 58% |
| Repairs Needed | $188 million |
| Public Meetings Dates | Oct. 14 and Oct. 15 |
| Decision Timeline | November |
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Additional Resources
- Evanston RoundTable: Simone Larson Column on School Closures
- Evanston RoundTable: District 65 School Closure Recommendations
- Chicago Tribune: Evanston/Skokie D65 Leans Toward Closing Schools
- ABC7 Chicago: Evanston/Skokie District 65 Students Return to New Cell Phone Policy
- Encyclopedia Britannica: School Closures
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