Centering Equity in the School-Closure Process in California

This report, one in a three part series that also includes a policy brief and a working paper, examines racial disproportionality of school closures in California in the wake of declining student enrollment. As enrollment and therefore school funding continues to decline across California, many districts have consolidated or closed schools. However, closures often save less money than districts anticipate; have mixed impacts on academic achievement; are disruptive to students and families; and may contribute to blight, segregation, disinvestment, and gentrification. The authors recommend that district leaders facing declining enrollment approach school closures with commitments to inclusivity and transparency; and that leaders proactively develop strategies to find displaced students high quality alternatives and to address long-term factors such as housing affordability. The report also suggests state leaders support the collection and dissemination of data on demographic trends and projections, including how these patterns will affect schools, and that states develop potential solutions with an eye towards regional needs and priorities.