Boston Public Schools face backlash over proposed Devere school closure

Concerns over proposed school closures dominated the Boston School Committee meeting on February 5, 2025, as community members voiced their frustrations regarding a lack of transparency and meaningful engagement in decision-making processes. Parents, teachers, and advocates criticized the Boston Public Schools (BPS) and city officials for what they described as a top-down approach that undermines trust and fails to consider the perspectives of those most affected.

One of the most pressing issues raised was the proposed closure of the Devers Elementary School. Nicole Livingstone, a teacher at Devers, argued that the justification for the closure—citing low building scores and insufficient student numbers—contradicts the school's record of exceeding growth requirements and effectively serving multilingual learners. Livingstone highlighted inconsistencies in the reasoning behind the closure, questioning whether the decision was based on the school's performance or the need for the building for other educational purposes.

Gabriela Antognano, a family liaison at Devers, expressed her concern that the closure would disrupt a community that provides a safe haven for vulnerable students, particularly in a politically charged environment. She emphasized the importance of maintaining stability for families already facing challenges such as housing instability.

The meeting also featured critical remarks from Edith Pazil, who pointed out systemic issues within BPS, including the lack of support for inclusion models and the need for better resources for teachers. She called for a reevaluation of the district's approach to equity and literacy, arguing that current strategies perpetuate racial injustice and fail to address the needs of Black students.

As the meeting concluded, it was clear that the community's call for transparency and collaboration would continue to resonate as BPS navigates the complexities of school closures and educational equity. The implications of these discussions are significant, as they highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive facilities plan that genuinely considers the voices of families and students in Boston.