Salem-Keizer School District Plans to Close Eight Elementary Schools by 2027-2028
The Salem-Keizer School District in Oregon is planning to close eight elementary schools beginning with the 2027-2028 school year due to declining enrollment. The district, which has seen a drop from over 40,000 students to around 35,000, aims to consolidate…
Portland, OR, July 31, 2026 —
The Salem-Keizer School District in Oregon has announced plans to close eight elementary schools, with the closures slated to begin with the 2027-2028 academic year. This decision comes as a direct response to a significant decline in student enrollment within the district.
District data indicates a substantial drop in the student population, falling from a peak of over 40,000 students to the current figure of approximately 35,000. Officials state the goal of consolidating resources and operating fewer, more efficiently utilized school sites is to improve overall educational conditions for students.
The process of determining which specific elementary schools will be affected is expected to be a lengthy one, involving considerable community input. This period of deliberation is anticipated to span approximately one year. A preliminary list of the schools potentially facing closure could be released as early as October.
Further details regarding the timeline for community engagement and the criteria used for school selection have not been provided.
Story summarized from the original created by FOX 12 Staff on www.kptv.com, see more information here.
