Boyertown School District explores new grade configurations for elementary space concerns

The Boyertown School Board is exploring significant changes to its elementary and middle school configurations to address space concerns and improve educational offerings. During the meeting on April 8, 2025, board members discussed the possibility of restructuring grade levels across the district, which could lead to the creation of a new model that includes a K-4 elementary setup and separate 5-6 and 7-8 middle schools.

The proposal aims to alleviate overcrowding in elementary schools, particularly at Washington and Boyertown Elementary, by moving fifth graders out of the elementary environment. This shift would allow for a more focused K-4 model, enhancing the learning experience for younger students. The board is considering utilizing one of the middle schools to accommodate the new 5-6 configuration, which would require a capacity of approximately 1,000 students.

In addition to the structural changes, the board is also looking into the implementation of full-day kindergarten, a move that would align Boyertown with most other districts in Berks and Montgomery counties. Currently, Boyertown is one of only two districts in the area that does not offer all-day kindergarten. The board anticipates that a feasibility study will be completed by fall 2025, with a potential budget of $1.5 million to support the hiring of additional kindergarten and special education teachers over the next three budget cycles.

Transportation logistics were also a topic of discussion, as the transition to full-day kindergarten would require adjustments to current bus routes. The board acknowledged the need for further analysis to ensure that buses can accommodate the increased number of students without extending travel times excessively.

As the district moves forward with these plans, the board emphasized the importance of thorough planning and community engagement to ensure that the changes meet the needs of students and families. The proposed timeline suggests that full implementation of these initiatives could take several years, with a target goal set for February 2028.