Dear Salt Lake City community and beyond, 

We need your help.  

You may or may not know this, but Emerson Elementary School is on a list of local schools that could close imminently due to factors like lower enrollment and building age. While this may not seem like a big deal, Emerson is the life blood to so many kids, teachers, parents, neighbors, small businesses, (and dogs) in and around Emerson’s neighborhood. 

While the School Board evaluates all of the inputs, the proposed closure raises several critical concerns that we wanted more people to know about. And while it’s not an exhaustive list, efforts like this help raise awareness and community engagement around our key concerns. 

First, let’s talk about safety. To bring this even closer to home, my son has just entered Kindergarten at Emerson, and we walk to school every day. We do this with many other parents who walk, bike or ride their children to the doors of Emerson with little concern about safety. One major concern is that our children would need to cross dangerous streets to access the school if Emerson were closed since kids would need to cross 700 E (Hawthorne) or 1300 E (Uinta). 

Secondly, closing Emerson would displace vulnerable students with disabilities who rely on the specialized support provided by the dedicated staff at this school. If Emerson closes, it is not as easy as simply attending a different school. The change in environment and staff requires significant mental and emotional stress that can take years to establish.

Furthermore, Emerson Elementary has been recognized nationally as a Blue Ribbon school for its exceptional education standards. This designation reflects the hard work and dedication of both teachers and students alike. Closing such an outstanding institution without clear substantiation would be disheartening not only for current families but also future generations who may miss out on this exceptional educational opportunity.

Last but not least, Emerson Elementary holds a special place in our hearts because it not only provides exceptional education but also serves as a vibrant community hub. We can’t underestimate the power of a strong community and the detrimental domino effect this could have on eroding the community if our beloved, quirky red building disappeared off the map. 

Please join me in signing this petition to save Emerson Elementary School from closure. Together, let us demonstrate our unwavering support for Emerson and send a clear message that its closure is not an option. Our children deserve nothing less.

If after signing this would like to learn what more you can do to support the cause, go to KeepEmersonOpen.info to find out.

Thank you for your support!

Additional Resources:

Salt Lake Tribune Article - Andy Larsen: Salt Lake City’s school closure effort is one big mess. Here’s how the district could do better.

This effort is brought to you by the Emerson School Community Council (SCC) and is not affiliated with Emerson Elementary School