Wichita, August 14, 2025
News Summary
The Wichita School District is moving forward with its Facility Master Plan, notably transforming Isely Elementary into a K-8 school. Despite the recent rejection of a $450 million bond, Superintendent Kelly Bielefeld announced funding for this transition has been secured. However, the district will still proceed with closing four elementary schools by 2027. Notifications about these closures are expected in fall 2026, pending school board approval. To support teacher retention during these changes, a new bonus plan has been introduced. A future bond vote is also under consideration for next year.
Wichita – The Wichita School District (USD 259) is pushing ahead with its Facility Master Plan despite a recent failed bond vote of $450 million. Key changes include the transformation of Isely Elementary in Bel Aire into a kindergarten through eighth-grade school, which has already begun with sixth graders returning to the campus.
Superintendent Kelly Bielefeld confirmed that funding for the K-8 transition has been identified, enabling the district to progress with this significant change despite the bond’s rejection. This shift aims to foster valuable community connections as emphasized by the school’s principal, Allison Renner.
However, the district announced that school closures, which were initially tied to the bond vote, will still take place. The plan includes the closure of four elementary schools—L’Ouverture, OK, Pleasant Valley, and Woodland—by the year 2027. Notifications about these closures are expected to be sent to parents by fall 2026, but these are contingent on school board approval. The specific timeline for the shutdowns remains uncertain.
The closures are scheduled to impact the OK and Pleasant Valley elementary schools first, as they are set to shut down in spring 2027. L’Ouverture and Woodland will follow, closing in spring 2028. Staff members at affected schools are awaiting resources and further communication regarding the implementation of these decisions. Teachers, including those at L’Ouverture, are expressing mixed feelings about the impending changes, showing sadness yet a sense of preparedness due to prior notifications.
To address teacher retention and morale during this transition, the district has introduced a bonus plan that offers a $1,500 incentive for the first year of service, increasing by $500 each subsequent year, topping out at $3,000 by the fourth year. However, teachers from OK and Pleasant Valley will not qualify for the fourth-year bonus since their schools will no longer be operational by then.
In addition to shifts in school configurations and closures, staff members are facing significant decisions about their futures. For example, a music teacher at L’Ouverture shared her contemplation of retirement as the closure approaches. Alternative schooling options are being considered for students at L’Ouverture, who may transition to nearby Mueller and Spaight elementary schools after their school shuts down.
Looking ahead, the district is contemplating another bond vote for potentially next year, with an eye toward November 2026 for the election, although this timeline remains subject to school board confirmation.
This move by USD 259 comes at a time when providing quality education and resource management are crucial for school districts facing financial and operational challenges. Changes in facilities, staffing, and community engagement are essential elements as the district endeavors to move forward.
FAQ Section
What is the current status of the Wichita School District’s Facility Master Plan?
The Facility Master Plan is moving forward with certain aspects, notably the transformation of Isely Elementary into a K-8 school, despite the bond vote failing.
What schools will be closing, and when?
Four elementary schools—L’Ouverture, OK, Pleasant Valley, and Woodland—are set to close by 2027. OK and Pleasant Valley will close in spring 2027, while L’Ouverture and Woodland will close in spring 2028.
When will parents be notified about school closures?
Notifications regarding the closures are expected to be sent to parents by fall 2026, pending school board approval.
What is the teacher bonus plan?
The district has introduced a bonus plan that offers teachers $1,500 in the first year, increasing by $500 each subsequent year, up to a maximum of $3,000 in the fourth year. However, teachers from closing schools will not qualify for the fourth-year bonus.
Will there be another bond vote?
The district is considering another bond vote, tentatively scheduled for November 2026, pending school board confirmation.
Key Features of the Wichita School District Changes
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Facility Master Plan | Proceeding with K-8 transition at Isely Elementary. |
| School Closures | Four elementary schools (L’Ouverture, OK, Pleasant Valley, and Woodland) will close by 2027. |
| Parent Notifications | Expected by fall 2026, pending school board approval. |
| Teacher Bonus Plan | $1,500 bonus first year, increasing annually, max $3,000 in year four. |
| Future Bond Vote | Tentatively scheduled for November 2026, pending confirmation. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Houston Cougars Capture Big 12 Championship Title
Additional Resources
- MSN News: School Closures for USD 259
- KWCH: Teacher Reacts to Wichita School Closure Plan
- KSN News: USD 259 Wichita Cancels School
- KAKE: Wichita Public Schools Prep for Potential Closures
- Kansas.com: Wichita School District Updates
- Wikipedia: Wichita Independent School District
- Google Search: Wichita Public Schools
- Google Scholar: Wichita School Closure
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Wichita
- Google News: Wichita School news
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
