Vallejo, California, August 1, 2025
News Summary
The Vallejo City Unified School District’s 7-11 Committee has recommended the closure of Lincoln Elementary, which has been identified as the most at-risk school among several others. This decision follows public hearings and concerns about the impact on low-income communities. With only 96 projected students, the closure raises fears about losing essential educational support. The final decision will be made in December, after discussions on potential savings from additional school closures.
Vallejo, California – The Vallejo City Unified School District’s 7-11 Committee has officially recommended Lincoln Elementary for closure, indicating it is the most at-risk school among seven listed for potential consolidation or closure. This decision comes following the committee’s third meeting, which included a legally mandated public hearing attended by approximately 20 community members.
The other schools highlighted for closure or consolidation alongside Lincoln are Steffan Manor, Pennycook, Federal Terrace Elementary, John Finney Education Complex, Cooper Elementary, and Highland Elementary. Principal Sue Kelly and Expanded Learning Coordinator Diane Flowers defended Lincoln Elementary during the public comments, emphasizing its unique role within a low-income demographic area.
As the smallest school on the list with a projected enrollment of just 96 students for the upcoming school year, there are concerns that closing Lincoln will negatively affect attendance and remove a supportive educational environment for children relying on the school for hope. The literacy program at Lincoln has made substantial improvements in student performance, and its potential closure raises alarms about the future of this successful initiative.
The committee recommended that if Lincoln were to close, its successful literacy program should be relocated to maintain the support it provides to students. Additionally, similar recommendations were made for programs at John Finney, while plans are underway to consolidate Steffan Manor students into Pennycook.
The committee categorized Federal Terrace, John Finney, Cooper, and Highland schools as “surplus.” This designation allows the district to lease, sell, or repurpose these sites in the future. During the public comment period, significant community support emerged for keeping the Cooper and Federal Terrace schools open, prompting some committee members to revisit their rankings and recommendations.
The committee’s final recommendations will be further discussed at a forthcoming meeting on August 11. Participation from affected community members, especially those from Lincoln Elementary, is strongly encouraged. Although the 7-11 Committee has moved forward with its recommendations, VCUSD Superintendent Rubén Aurelio stated that final decisions would not be made until December, and these recommendations will inform future discussions.
In recent years, the Vallejo City Unified School District has faced significant challenges with declining enrollment. The district’s student body has decreased from around 18,000 students in 2004 to approximately 9,656 last year. To maintain financial stability, the district aims to close three additional schools, with Lincoln, Pennycook, and Cooper identified as potential priorities. Projected annual savings from these closures are estimated at $300,000, $600,000, and $450,000, respectively.
District officials have expressed ongoing concerns regarding further declines in student enrollment. They stress the necessity of substantial budget cuts to remain solvent, emphasizing that closures or consolidations are focused not only on financial issues but also on enhancing services and attracting new students.
FAQ
What are the schools recommended for closure in Vallejo City?
The schools recommended for closure or consolidation include Lincoln Elementary, Steffan Manor, Pennycook, Federal Terrace Elementary, John Finney Education Complex, Cooper Elementary, and Highland Elementary.
When will the final decisions about closures be made?
Final decisions regarding school closures will not be made until December, following further discussions and community feedback.
Why is Lincoln Elementary being targeted for closure?
Lincoln Elementary has been identified as the most at-risk school due to its low enrollment of 96 students, along with being situated in a low-income area, which raises concerns about the educational impact of its closure.
What are the projected financial savings from the closures?
The projected savings from closing Lincoln, Pennycook, and Cooper are estimated at $300,000, $600,000, and $450,000 annually, respectively.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Recommended for Closure | Lincoln Elementary, Steffan Manor, Pennycook, Federal Terrace Elementary, John Finney, Cooper Elementary, Highland Elementary |
| Projected Enrollment of Lincoln | 96 students |
| Next Discussion Date | August 11 |
| Final Decision Timeline | December |
| Projected Annual Savings | $300,000, $600,000, $450,000 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Times Herald Online: Lincoln Elementary Closure
- Vallejo Sun: School Closures
- Kron4: Vallejo School Closures
- Vallejo Sun: School Closure Plans
- Times Herald Online: End of School Era
- Wikipedia: California
- Google Search: Vallejo education system
- Google Scholar: Vallejo school closures
- Encyclopedia Britannica: High School
- Google News: Vallejo school district
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