Cape Creek Unified School District faces backlash over proposed school closures

The Cave Creek Unified School District (CCUSD) Governing Board meeting on February 11, 2025, focused on critical financial challenges facing the district, including potential school closures. The discussions highlighted the urgency of addressing declining enrollment and budget deficits, with community members expressing strong opinions on the proposed closures of Lone Mountain Elementary School (LMES) and Desert Sun Academy (DSA).

During the meeting, a speaker likened the district's financial situation to being on "life support," emphasizing that closing schools could be necessary for the district's survival. This analogy underscored the gravity of the situation, as the speaker warned that failing to make tough decisions could lead to the district's "fiscal death certificate."

Ben Petru, another community member, raised concerns about the proposed closures, arguing that LMES is one of the district's most efficient schools and contributes positively to the budget. He criticized the board for not presenting alternative scenarios for addressing the financial issues and for withholding information from the community. Petru urged the board to delay any decisions on school closures until more comprehensive data and options could be discussed.

Corinne Kotzman, a long-time resident, supported the closures, stating that difficult decisions are necessary to preserve essential programs for students and faculty. She urged the board to prioritize long-term viability over short-term popularity.

Zach McQueen, a father of five, expressed disappointment with the district's leadership for not pursuing a bond or override sooner. He emphasized the need for a clear plan moving forward and criticized the perception that closing schools would solve the district's problems. McQueen argued that the community is ready to support an override and that the board should focus on stabilizing the budget without closing multiple schools.

The meeting concluded with a call for more transparency and community involvement in decision-making. As the board considers its next steps, the discussions reflect a community deeply invested in the future of its schools and the need for strategic planning to address ongoing financial challenges.