BPS - Work Session 10-14-26

Buffalo Public Schools work session on student achievement and school reconfiguration, October 14, 2026. District staff presented revised recommendations for the 2027–28 school year, including proposed closures or reconfigurations and new uses for several buildings. Adjustments included relocating Da Vinci and Research Lab High School to PS 309, placing Buffalo Rising Academy and CCI at Riverside (PS 208), and expanding possible receiving-school options for PS 33 students. Research Lab’s proposed move from leased space to a district-owned building could reduce reliance on leased facilities. No vote or contract award was taken; board members discussed whether to act on the proposal the following week or allow more time for community input.

Staff estimated approximately $20 million in annual cost reductions from staffing, facilities, transportation, and other changes; they emphasized that the estimates are preliminary and depend on final configurations and implementation. The revised transportation scenario would reduce eight bus assignments rather than the originally proposed 18, with estimated savings of about $1 million while retaining capacity for coverage and potential student shuttles; route plans and transportation contracts still require validation. The board also discussed negotiations on the Emerson building lease, which expires next year, and state reimbursement for eligible leases and capital projects. No procurement action was approved. Other implementation topics included potential staff reductions, student placements and transitions, and an online registration system using Infinite Campus.