Millcreek, Utah, September 25, 2025
News Summary
Eastwood Elementary School in Millcreek, Utah, faces potential closure as parents and students protest against a decision by the Granite School District. The school has a strong academic reputation but is experiencing declining enrollment, prompting district officials to consider merging it with Oakridge Elementary. Community members are vocal about their concerns, emphasizing the importance of Eastwood to local families. A public meeting is set for November to discuss the future of the school, with a final decision expected in December.
Millcreek, Utah: Eastwood Elementary School Faces Closure Amidst Protests from Parents and Students
Eastwood Elementary School in Millcreek, Utah, is at the center of a significant community dispute as parents and local residents protest against a proposed closure by the Granite School District. The school is well-regarded for its academic performance, being recognized as a top 10 elementary and a Gold-standing STEM institution in Utah. Protesters gathered outside Skyline High School, chanting phrases such as “Don’t mess with our Eagle’s Nest!” in defense of the beloved school and mascot, the eagle.
The Granite School District is considering closing Eastwood due to a reported decline in student enrollment. District officials have noted a decrease of over 15,000 students in the last decade and a total decline of 20,000 over the past 25 years. Superintendent Ben Horsley remarked that such proposals to close schools are emotionally taxing for the district, as they weigh community feelings against practical needs.
Currently, Eastwood Elementary has a utilization rate of 54%, with an enrollment of approximately 270 students, while its capacity stands at about 500. If the closure occurs, Eastwood’s boundaries would merge with those of Oakridge Elementary, which has a lower utilization rate of 47%. Oakridge was favored for remaining open due to its larger capacity and superior logistical advantages for student pick-up and drop-off. Many parents, including those with students enrolled at Eastwood, have voiced their frustration, feeling that their concerns are not being heard in the decision-making process.
A further public meeting scheduled for November 2023 will revisit the possible closure, with a final verdict expected by December 2023. The continuing debate over Eastwood’s future comes against a backdrop of broader trends in the Granite School District, which has closed ten schools in the past seven years, attributed largely to declining enrollment figures and evolving demographics within the region. Morningside Elementary is also under consideration for closure but would potentially transition into a K-5 French dual language immersion program.
As the Granite School District studies enrollment and resource allocation, parents and advocates remain hopeful that their voices will influence the decision regarding Eastwood, a school that many see as thriving and integral to the community.
Key Facts about Eastwood Elementary and its Situation:
- Location: Millcreek, Utah
- School Mascot: Eagle
- Current Enrollment: 270 students
- School Capacity: 500 students
- Utilization Rate: 54%
- Closure Vote Timeline: Public meeting in November 2023, final decision in December 2023
- Granite School District Decline: Over 15,000 students in 10 years, 20,000 in 25 years
- Recent Closures: 10 schools closed in the last 7 years
- Other School Considered for Closure: Morningside Elementary
FAQ
Why is Eastwood Elementary School being considered for closure?
The Granite School District cites dwindling enrollment as the primary reason for considering the closure of Eastwood Elementary School.
What is Eastwood’s current enrollment and capacity?
Eastwood Elementary currently has an enrollment of 270 students and a capacity of approximately 500 students, resulting in a utilization rate of 54%.
When will the final decision regarding the closure of Eastwood be made?
The final decision regarding the possible closure of Eastwood Elementary is expected in December 2023 after a public meeting in November 2023.
Chart: Key Features of Eastwood Elementary School and Proposed Closure
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Millcreek, Utah |
| Current Enrollment | 270 Students |
| Capacity | 500 Students |
| Utilization Rate | 54% |
| Closure Consideration Reason | Dwindling Enrollment |
| Public Meeting Date | November 2023 |
| Final Decision Date | December 2023 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Houston High Schools Shine in U.S. News Rankings
Additional Resources
- Fox 13 Now
- Wikipedia: Education in Utah
- Salt Lake Tribune
- Google Search: Granite School District
- KSL News
- Google Scholar: School Closures in Utah
- Virtual Builder Exchange
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Millcreek
- KSL TV
- Google News: Millcreek School Closure
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