The Danbury School District is at a critical juncture as it grapples with declining enrollment and funding challenges, particularly concerning its magnet school program. During the Board of Education meeting on March 12, 2025, officials discussed the implications of a significant drop in out-of-district student enrollment, which has raised concerns about the sustainability of the school’s operations.

The district currently receives approximately $1.6 million from a magnet operating grant and additional tuition revenue from participating towns, totaling around $1.7 million. However, the overall operating costs for the school exceed $4.3 million, leading to a substantial funding gap that the district must address. With the state mandating a reduction in fees charged to participating districts, the financial strain is expected to worsen if enrollment continues to decline.

Officials highlighted that the school is currently under-enrolled, having lost a kindergarten class last year, which will impact future grades. This trend poses a risk of further reductions in funding and could hinder the district's ability to accommodate Danbury students, who are on a waiting list to enroll.

A key point of discussion was the potential to transition the magnet school back to a Danbury public school after 20 years of operation, which is set to occur in April 2025. This change could allow the district to restructure its approach to enrollment and funding. However, it would require careful planning and communication with families and participating districts to ensure a smooth transition.

The board emphasized that closing the school is not an option; rather, the goal is to fill the school with students and enhance its offerings. Staff members expressed concerns about the future, but also provided valuable suggestions for attracting more students.

As the district navigates these challenges, officials are committed to exploring all options, including a phased approach to any potential changes. The upcoming meeting with state representatives will be crucial in determining the best path forward for the school and its students. The board remains focused on maintaining quality education while addressing the financial realities of the current enrollment landscape.