1-27-2026 Special Board Meeting

The Leavenworth USD 453 Special Board Meeting held on January 27, 2026, focused primarily on enrollment analysis and the district's financial challenges related to declining student numbers. A presentation by Jenna Wallace from RS Associates detailed enrollment trends, demographic shifts, housing developments, and projections indicating a continued decrease in student population over the next five years. The board discussed several structural options to address a $3.3 million budget deficit, including potential closures of elementary schools (Anthony and David Brewer) and reorganization of grade levels to improve operational efficiency and reduce costs. Financial impacts of these options were analyzed, including estimated savings of approximately $1.5 million from school closures, offset by one-time moving and renovation costs and increased transportation expenses. The board also considered the implications of these changes on special education services, staff retention, community identity, and student experience. No decisions were made during the meeting, but members emphasized the need for timely action by the February 9 decision point to avoid further cultural and financial strain. The meeting included detailed discussions on facility utilization, transportation logistics, and the balance between cost savings and educational quality.