On September 29, 2025, Evanston District 65 staff presented the School Board with 7 recommended scenarios suggesting closure of 1-4 elementary schools as part of the Structural Deficit Reduction Plan. A final vote will take place by November 17, 2025.

Schools are more than just buildings; they're sanctuaries where our children discover safety, friendship, confidence, and the dedicated teachers who believe in them. These buildings aren’t just made of bricks; they are the pulse of our communities where families come together, and every child is valued and supported.

In Evanston, our neighborhood and magnet schools reflect the core values we hold dear: inclusion, equity, and opportunity for every child. A rash decision to close these schools without a careful, transparent plan not only jeopardizes our children's education but also unfurls the delicate fabric of trust that binds our community.

Evanston families are sending a resounding message to District 65: Save Our Schools. We demand that the District 65 Board of Education:

CLOSE ONLY ONE

We do not accept the closing of multiple schools because there is no current financial crisis that justifies such drastic measures. Past administrative expansions and inconsistent fiscal management cannot be corrected at the cost of our children's future.

We insist that District 65 provide verifiable evidence of successful management with one school closure and its promised savings before considering further actions that heighten disruption and anxiety among families and students. 

PROTECT WHAT'S WORKING

Protecting thriving aspects of our schools, where children are nurtured and communities grow, is vital at this moment in time.

Our diverse, walkable neighborhood schools are pillars of stability, packed with trusted educators and strong programs that foster student success. School closures harm students who need consistent environments the most, risking a widening inequity gap and undermining educational outcomes and community cohesion across Evanston. 

FIND A BETTER PATH

By finding a creative, data-driven path forward with the active involvement of parents and the community, we can ensure a sustainable future for our schools, rebuilding trust and reducing harm. This approach will restore public confidence, laying groundwork for potential future developments that bolster community support crucial for our district's success.

Join us in demanding a responsible and transparent approach to sustaining our children’s education and preserving Evanston’s vibrant heart. We’re not just advocating for buildings; we’re fighting for the sense of belonging, the educators uplifting our children, and the rich, cultural tapestry that makes Evanston exceptionally strong.

Add your name to the Save Our Schools Petition and stand with Evanston families in calling for a responsible and transparent approach to our city’s educational future.

Sign now to protect what works, close only one school, and find a better path for all our children.