Parents rally to save Spalding Drive Elementary amid closure recommendations
2 metro Atlanta elementary schools may close
The Fulton County superintendent plans to present the school board with recommendations to close two elementary schools: Spalding Drive Charter Elementary in Sandy Springs and Parklane Elementary in East Point.
FULTON COUNTY, Ga. - The Fulton County Superintendent is set to present recommendations to the school board to close two elementary schools: Spalding Drive Elementary in Sandy Springs and Parklane Elementary in East Point. The district cites declining enrollment and the age of the buildings as the primary reasons for the proposed closures.
Spalding Drive Elementary could be closed
What we know:
Spalding Drive Elementary has been a key focus of community advocacy, with parents opposing the closure for months. Many families specifically moved to the area because of the school’s smaller size and its ability to provide tailored education. "Things that were challenges for her before she’s now excelling in, and we credit that to a lot of the schools’ ability to specialize the education in a way that in a larger school it might not be possible," said parent Stephen Bell.
The district maintains that parent input is appreciated and considered in the board’s decision-making process.
Last month, parents and community members submitted a 100-page document titled The Case to Save Spalding. This document highlights concerns over inconsistent data and questions the minimal cost savings the closure would achieve. One example cited by parent Becky Buice is that last year the school was deemed ineligible for open enrollment due to a lack of capacity, but months later, new metrics claimed the school was at 63% capacity. "That also just kind of gives you a sense of whiplash," Buice said.
Fulton County School Board to decide on closures
What we don't know:
What specific metrics or data the school board will use to make its decision on the closures.
Whether the input provided by parents and community members will significantly impact the board’s final decision.
The exact timeline for when a final decision will be made and implemented if the schools are approved for closure.
What alternative solutions the district has considered or might propose to address enrollment and infrastructure concerns without closing schools.
Fight to save Spalding Drive Elementary
The backstory:
For nearly five months, families at Spalding Drive Elementary have been living in uncertainty about the school’s future. Many parents argue that the closure process has been mishandled and does not prioritize the students. "Fulton County says that they put students first, but the way that they’ve handled this has been anything but putting students first," said Buice.
The community’s efforts to keep the school open stem from a deep connection to Spalding Drive Elementary as a neighborhood institution. Jennifer Wilson described the school as "the heart of this community," adding, "We live just down the street; we’re here all the time."
Reaction to Spalding Drive Elementary closure threat
What they're saying:
Parents have voiced their frustration and emotional toll over the situation. "It’s been crazy, it’s been sad, it’s been hectic, it’s been stressful," Wilson said.
Others have called for the district to reevaluate its decision-making process entirely. "They need to stop it all and figure out a better way to evaluate schools, evaluate enrollment issues—just step back and come up with a better process," said Emily Bell.
Parents hope the issue will be resolved at Tuesday’s school board meeting. "I’d like to see them say, you know what, you’re right. Some greater thought needs to be put into this process," Wilson added.
Timeline:
Last Year: Spalding Drive Elementary was deemed ineligible for open enrollment due to full capacity.
Five Months Ago: Discussions about closing Spalding Drive Elementary began, creating uncertainty for families.
Last Month: Parents presented The Case to Save Spalding to school leaders, questioning the data and cost savings justifications for the closure.
This Week: The school board is expected to make a decision following the Superintendent’s recommendations.
Fulton Coutny School Board meeting
What's next:
The school board’s decision is anticipated during their Tuesday night meeting. If the recommendations are approved, the closures could take effect as early as the next school year. However, parents and community members are pushing for a delay or reversal of the process to allow for further evaluation of the district’s plans and metrics.
Why you should care:
The closure of Spalding Drive Elementary and Parklane Elementary could set a precedent for how Fulton County addresses challenges related to enrollment and aging infrastructure in the future. The decisions made here could affect not only current students and families but also broader community dynamics and property values in these areas. For families in the district, the outcome may influence trust in school leadership and processes moving forward.
The Source: This article is based on original reporting by FOX 5's Kim Leoffler.