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Wednesday, May 14, 2008
Should some schools close?
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Atlanta school leaders proposed closing two campuses because the schools don’t have enough students. Enrollment at Waters Elementary and Walden Middle has steadily declined since nearby public housing projects closed.
The proposal has angered Walden parents more than those from Waters. The Walden community has begged the board to keep the school open. While enrollment has dropped, they argue it will go up as redevelopment continues in the area.
But school officials have said the middle school - which is expected to have just 130 students in August - will be too small to justify keeping it open.
Atlanta isn’t the only school system going through this. As people move, some crowded schools empty out. Still, closing a school isn’t easy. Many view a shut down school as a sign that a community is dying or already dead.
When should a district close down a small school? Many of you have supported smaller schools, but can a campus be too small?
