Dear District 65 Community,

As our students and many staff begin a well-earned summer break, I want to thank you for your continued partnership and to share an update on our Structural Deficit Reduction Plan (SDRP). I also want to acknowledge that summer can be a difficult time for some families. Please remember that free summer meals are available for students.

Where We Are Now

Over the past two years, District 65 has implemented $20 million in reductions to help stabilize our long-term finances, with an additional $10-15 million in savings needed for FY2027. During our first two phases, we made an intentional effort to preserve investments that our stakeholders deemed most valuable, centering the needs of all students. We also strived to maintain as many school-based positions as possible, with over 50 central office reductions. As we prepare for staff transitions this summer, we are immensely grateful to those leaving for their service to our students and schools.

What We've Heard

Over the past six months, we’ve prioritized transparency and inclusion—and one of the most encouraging outcomes has been the deep collaboration, care, and investment shown by so many. This process has revealed a community that truly values its public schools and is committed to rolling up its sleeves for their future. 

Through surveys, advisory groups, and public forums, hundreds of families, staff, students, and community members have come together to share their perspectives on potential school closure/consolidation criteria. A summary of this input is available on our SDRP website and it continues to directly inform next steps.

What's Ahead: Criteria for School Closures/Consolidations

We are now in Phase III, focused on evaluating our building use and facility conditions, enrollment trends, and planning for possible school closures or consolidations for the 2026-2027 school year. Three stakeholder-based committees are helping lead this work in the areas of Facilities, Finance, and Student Programming.

Later this month we will present a proposed set of criteria to the School Board for discussion. These criteria generated by the Facilities Committee, with input from the Superintendent Parent/Caregiver Advisory Council, are intended to guide how we evaluate future decisions on potential school closures/consolidation.

Spanish interpretation will be offered at all events.

Looking Forward

We recognize summer is a busy time; however, this process must continue to move forward as important budgetary decisions will be necessary. The decisions and conversations ahead will not be easy and yet I believe in the strength of this community. As a reminder, no decisions have been made on school closures/consolidations. A timeline is available on our SDRP website with next steps.

With change comes a renewed sense of hope and promise. Together, we can build a more sustainable, vibrant future for current and future generations of students.

With gratitude,

Dr. Angel Turner (she/her)

Superintendent

Learn more on our D65 website!

Access directly from the homepage!

district65.net/sdrp