During a recent Lee's Summit R-7 School District meeting, community members voiced strong concerns regarding the proposed closure of Lee's Summit Elementary (LSE), a Title 1 school serving a significant population of students of color and those from low-income families. The discussions highlighted the potential negative impacts on the community and the students who rely on the resources provided by LSE.

Several speakers, including parents and students, emphasized the importance of LSE in fostering a sense of belonging and providing essential support for its students. Ignacio Salazar, a fourth grader, passionately argued that the school's value lies not in its physical structure but in the dedicated teachers and staff who support students' growth and development. He urged the district to reconsider the closure, stating, \"It's not a fancy new building that is going to make us better. Our current school is already doing that.\"

Parents expressed frustration over the lack of community involvement in the decision-making process. Chris Winburn, a father of two future LSC students, called for more time to explore alternatives to closing LSE, highlighting that discussions about renovations took months, while the closure decision was made in just three weeks. He also requested collaboration between LSE stakeholders and district leadership to ensure that the needs of the community are adequately addressed.

Concerns were raised about the district's focus on consolidating schools to fit a standardized model, potentially overlooking the unique needs of the community. Nicolette Sadler, a future parent, criticized the plan to relocate preschool programs to LSE, arguing that it does not align with the needs of local families who depend on accessible education options.

Valerie Salazar, an LSR 7 graduate and parent, pointed out that the proposed closure disproportionately affects students of color and those receiving free or reduced lunch. She criticized the district for not seeking input from key stakeholders before announcing the closure, stating that the decision lacked transparency and consideration for the community's needs.

As the meeting concluded, the community's call for a more inclusive and thoughtful approach to school closures resonated strongly, emphasizing the need to prioritize the well-being of students and families in the district's decision-making processes.