Seattle Public Schools is pressing forward with a plan to close several schools as it faces a budget shortfall of $94 million for the 2025-26 school year. Superintendent Dr. Brent Jones shared the details in an email Thursday to the SPS community, noting that four schools would close next year as part of an effort to stabilize the district's finances.The current decision marks a shift from an earlier, more expansive plan to close 21 schools, which led to backlash from parents and families.
Seattle Public Schools will host several engagement sessions at impacted schools starting next week, running through Nov. 23. A districtwide information session is scheduled for Nov. 14, aiming to provide transparency and support for affected families. The district is also advocating for increased state funding, particularly for special education and transportation, and plans to renew key levies in early 2025.