Eastview PTO board member calls for thoughtful school attendance adjustments

Concerns over attendance area adjustments took center stage at the Lakeville Public School District Board of Education meeting on March 18, 2025. Lindsey Witt, a parent and member of the Eastview PTO, voiced her frustrations regarding the recent changes that have significantly impacted the school community.

Witt highlighted that nearly half of the Eastview Elementary community has changed due to the adjustments made last year, resulting in a shift in the PTO board as well. She expressed disappointment that the issues these changes aimed to resolve were already known and warned about last year. "Based on the data, the models wouldn't be able to serve our community for more than 2 to 3 years," she stated, urging the new board and superintendent to take a more thoughtful approach this time.

Witt painted a vivid picture of the proposed adjustments, explaining how they would separate children in the same neighborhood, forcing some to cross a busy highway to reach their assigned school. She emphasized that the adjustments fail to address the real capacity issues, noting that Maguire Middle School is under capacity while Kenwood and Century are overcrowded.

Her call to action was clear: "Focus on changes that actually address the capacity issues. Consider proximity to schools and safety." Witt urged the board to develop solutions that minimize disruption for students and families, stressing the importance of a rational and thoughtful approach to avoid repeating past mistakes.

As the meeting continued, other community members, including public health nurse Kirsten, also raised concerns about accountability and transparency in health insurance decisions affecting staff and students. The discussions reflect a growing demand for effective solutions that prioritize the well-being of Lakeville's students and families.