Ward 2 Schools Saved from Closure

Garrison Elementary and the Francis Stevens Education Campus, the two Ward 2 schools on D.C. Public Schools Chancellor Kaya Henderson's proposed closure list, will remain open, DCPS announced Thursday.

In all DCPS will plan will consolidate 15 schools: 13 at the end of the 2012-2013 school year and two more at the end of the 2013-2014 school year. DCPS estimates the consolidation will save the system $19.5 million.

“The proposal we put out in early November evoked strong reactions from the community,” Henderson said in a press release. “I’ve been inspired and encouraged by the thoughtful feedback we heard from parents, advocates, students, school staff and others during this process. My priority is, and will remain, what is best for our students, and I am confident that our final plan will best support our students and their families.”

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Garrison Elementary, in the Logan Circle neighborhood, was on the list of schools to close, but parent activity and the voice of Councilman Jack Evans helped save it from closure. According to the Chancellor's plan, Garrison will offer new early childhood and special education classrooms.

Meanwhile the Francis Stevens Education Campus in the West End area will merge with the School Without Walls high school to create a K-12 learning environment across two campuses. 

According to the press release: "Francis-Stevens Education Campus (Ward 2) will merge with School Without Walls to serve students from pre-K to grade 12. Merging these schools allows the high-performing School Without Walls to expand its grades and manage a neighborhood/boundary education campus at the Francis-Stevens building."

Though Evans supports consolidating schools, he opposed the proposed closures in his ward. 

“I’m pleased to see that the Chancellor made the right decision and kept Garrison and Francis-Stevens open”, Evans said in a press release. “This is a new opportunity, and I know parents and children will take advantage of it. I am hopeful that Chancellor Henderson will continue to work with the parents and neighbors going forward to ensure the long term vibrancy of these schools."

For more detailed information about the plan, including cost savings estimates and facilities details, click here. 

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