More On Randolph Ward and the Occupation Of Oakland Schools

Statement from Ward's Office...

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Members, Board of Education

This is to advise you that Dr. Ward will announce at 10:30 a.m. this morning the five schools "short list".

The schools are:
Burbank Elementary
Foster Elementary
John Swett Elementary
Longfellow Elementary
Toler Height Elementary

Dr. Ward will honor the request to "slow down the process" based on Board member and public's input. The school closure hearings scheduled for Monday and Tuesday next week will be rescheduled at a future date not yet determined. Meantime, Dr. Ward and appropriate staff will apply the following criteria and actions to any final decision:

a) environmental impact:
b) impact on existing programs (cognitive and non-cognitive)
District-wide and short "list" site specific schools and neighboring schools (e.g., boundaries, child care programs, after school programs);
c) school site utilization;
d) input from site staff
e) letter to parents

While the above factors and actions are considered, planning
for the operation of schools next year will include scenarios for closing the above schools. Parents of the schools on the short list will be encouraged to use the Open Enrollment Option so as to minimize impact of any final decision made.