News Summary
The Norfolk School Board has voted to implement a multi-year closure and consolidation plan affecting nine schools. The decision, aimed at modernizing facilities amid declining enrollment, has sparked debate within the community. Concerns were raised regarding its impact on local learning environments and the necessity of clearer communication during the transition. The board plans to utilize the upcoming school year to develop a comprehensive redistricting plan to address educational disparities across the district.
Norfolk, VA – The Norfolk School Board voted 6–1 on Wednesday, October 15, 2025, to approve a controversial multi-year closure and consolidation plan for its schools, slated to commence in the 2026–27 school year and extend into the next decade. Board member Tanya K. Bhasin was the sole vote against the plan, expressing concerns regarding the implications for local learning communities and the absence of a focused strategy to enhance academic outcomes for students.
The comprehensive plan involves the closure of nine schools, realignment of existing programs, and new construction projects aimed at modernizing learning environments while simultaneously reducing costs for the school district. Bhasin voiced criticism over the decision-making process and highlighted the necessity for better communication and transition plans before implementing such significant changes. Nevertheless, she indicated her willingness to support the board’s decision moving forward.
Details of the Closure Plan
The approved plan will result in the closure of the following schools over the upcoming years: Willoughby Elementary and Norview Elementary in the 2026-27 school year; Ghent School, Tarrallton Elementary, P.B. Young Sr. Elementary, and Granby Elementary in the 2027-28 school year; Southeastern Cooperative Educational Programs Center in 2028-29; Berkley-Campostella in 2029-30; and Norfolk Technical Center by 2033-34.
In an effort to reallocate resources, the program from Ghent School will transition to the Academy of International Studies at Rosemont Middle School, while the Southeastern Cooperative Educational Program will relocate to Chesterfield Elementary School. Students affected by the closure of Willoughby Elementary will transfer to Oceanair Elementary School, and Lindenwood Elementary will be repurposed as a professional development center. Moreover, the division is planning to either rebuild or renovate Lake Taylor High School, Jacox Elementary, and possibly one additional school.
Impact of Enrollment Decline
This closure and consolidation plan comes in response to a request from the City Council made in March, urging the School Board to devise a strategy to close at least ten schools due to ongoing challenges related to declining enrollments and financial constraints. The board has observed a notable 25% decrease in enrollment over the past decade, a factor significantly influencing the decision to consolidate resources and streamline operations.
Board member Col. Kenneth Paulson (Ret.) acknowledged that greater community involvement would have improved the process and indicated that future modifications to the closure plan would be welcomed. The board aims to utilize the 2025-26 school year to develop a comprehensive redistricting plan aimed at addressing poverty levels and improving educational environments throughout the division.
Future Steps and Community Involvement
Final assessments regarding the relocations for the schools that will be affected are scheduled to conclude by February 2026. Public hearings and additional votes are expected to take place by March 30, 2026, allowing for community input in the finalization of the plan’s implementation.
The decision of the Norfolk School Board is generating mixed reactions among local stakeholders. While some see the need for change amid declining student populations, others express concerns about disrupting established academic homes and the overall impact on educational quality. The board chair has acknowledged that while the plan is aimed at ultimately improving student outcomes, it may not be met with universal approval, emphasizing the necessity for transparency and ongoing dialogue with the community as they move forward with the changes.
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Additional Resources
- Pilot Online: Norfolk School Board Approves Plan to Close 9 Schools by 2034
- Wikipedia: Norfolk, Virginia
- WTKR: Norfolk School Board Approves Major School Closure Consolidation Plan
- Google Search: Norfolk schools closure
- 13 News Now: Norfolk Schools Face Closures and Rebuilds as Board Approves Plan
- Google Scholar: Norfolk school board closure
- WAVY: Major Plan to Close, Consolidate Public Schools in Norfolk Approved
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Norfolk, Virginia
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