Potential elementary school closures

GRAND JUNCTION, Colo. ( KREX ) — School district officials say since 2019 District 51 has seen over 2,000 less students enrolled. With declining enrollment, also comes loss of funds, which Superintendent Dr. Brian Hill says has equated to the loss of $26 million per year in funding.

Now, because of the declining enrollment, D51 is seriously considering closing some elementary schools. Hill says he’s working through scenarios to bring to the board in November. They will make a decision about what schools and how many will close by winter break.

Hill also tells WesternSlopeNow declining enrollment is mainly due to low birth rates.

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