LAUSD faces tough choices: Which schools to close, update or rebuild as enrollment dives

This is read by an automated voice.Please report any issues or inconsistencies here.

See more from the L.A.Times in Google Search.

Set us as preferred Enrollment in Los Angeles schools has taken another steep dive — about 4% this year — as officials press ahead with a multibillion-dollar modernization and rebuilding plan, raising questions about investing in campuses that may soon be shuttered.The school closure issue was supposed to move forward Tuesday, as the Board of Education was slated to vote on hiring a consultant to advise in that arena.But the contract was pulled from consideration at the last moment after mounting alarm among parent activists and employee groups.

Instead, Supt.Andrés Chait hit the reset button with a districtwide message.“When schools become very small, it can be harder to provide the full range of opportunities our students deserve,” Chait wrote.

“That is why, over the coming weeks, we will begin a community conversation about how we can strengthen our schools and make sure every student has access to the opportunities and support they need to succeed.” “Our goal is not simply to have fewer schools,” he added.“Our goal is to have stronger schools.”The decisions weigh heavily into imminent issues confronting the Board of Education, which must carry out a budget-cutting plan to prevent a deficit that, in a worst-case scenario, could increase to $3.5 billion by June 30, 2029.

Layoffs, unpaid staff furloughs and school closures probably are ahead as the leaders downsize operations.California LAUSD faces a looming budget crisis and job cuts as county officials pursue oversight ahead of the new school year.

Get the latest details.At the same time, the school district has proceeded full force into its ongoing school reconstruction and modernization program, which voters buttressed in November 2024 with $9 billion in bonds.On Tuesday, the board approved major reconstruction projects at four elementary schools...