The Anchorage School District superintendent has recommended to the ASD School Board the closure of three schools with almost no notice nor ability for the public to weigh in. It was announced on Friday afternoon (2/13) that Campbell STEM, Fire Lake and Lake Otis Elementary schools are being recommended for closure with public testimony only being taken at the 2/17 board meeting (one business day after the announcement), and will be voted on at a special board meeting on 2/24 to take effect at the end of this school year. This has been pitched as a cost-saving measure, but this permanent decision would limit future options and is unlikely to realize true financial benefit to the district.

Educational research underscores the necessity of stable, high-quality and nearby educational institutions for the academic and social success of children. Transferring children to further and larger institutions not only disrupts their learning experience but also increases commuting times, diminishes community involvement, and strains family routines.

Moreover, the economic argument doesn't hold weight when we consider the broader cost implications: increased transportation expenses, higher student-to-teacher ratios, and the loss of neighborhood schools, which can negatively impact property values. The savings from closing these schools could be negated by the long-term economic and social costs imposed on our community.

Schools are more than just buildings where children learn basic academics; they are the heart of our neighborhoods, contributing to community cohesion, providing employment, and creating a sense of belonging for families.

By signing this petition, you are standing with the parents, teachers, and students of Anchorage who believe in the value of our neighborhood elementary schools. We urge the school board to recommend against closure and to recognize the vital role these schools play in our community's future. Let us preserve the educational foundations and community spirit on which Anchorage relies. Additionally, let's tell the School Board that the community needs to be involved in decisions that impact our entire community with appropriate time and ability to provide input. Please lend your voice to this cause and help us keep our schools open.