In a recent government meeting, Director Jeremy Sorenson presented preliminary recommendations for adjusting elementary school attendance areas within the district, marking the first comprehensive review since 1995. The proposed changes aim to address overcrowding, balance enrollment, and accommodate future growth, particularly in the southern region of the district.
The adjustments are driven by significant population growth, especially in the southeast area, and the need to maintain optimal school sizes of 600 to 800 students per building. The plan includes the establishment of a new attendance area for an upcoming elementary school located at the intersection of Akron Avenue and Bon Air Path in Rosemount. This new school is expected to alleviate overcrowding at Rosemount Elementary, which currently serves 913 students, by reducing its attendance area population to 493 students.
In addition to the new school, the proposal outlines changes in two zones. Zone 1 focuses on the new elementary school, while Zone 2 addresses enrollment imbalances among existing schools, including East Lake, Diamond Path, Highland, and Shannon Park. Currently, East Lake serves 913 students, while Shannon Park has only 355. The proposed adjustments aim to redistribute students more equitably, with Diamond Path's attendance area increasing from 384 to 578 students, allowing for a more balanced distribution across the schools.
The district has emphasized community engagement throughout this process, seeking feedback from parents and stakeholders to refine the proposals before a final decision is made in November. The adjustments are designed to ensure that all students have equitable access to resources and educational opportunities, aligning with the district's strategic priorities and state guidelines.
As the district moves forward, the focus remains on creating a sustainable and effective educational environment that meets the diverse needs of its student population while adhering to the principles of neighborhood schools and community growth.