Hawaiian Gardens residents advocate to keep Ferguson Elementary open amid proposed closures

The City Council Special Meeting held on May 22, 2025, in Hawaiian Gardens, California, focused primarily on the proposed closures of local schools, particularly Ferguson Elementary, Aloha Elementary, and Juarez Elementary. Parents and community members expressed deep concerns regarding the impact of these closures on families and the community.

Anthony Rico, a parent of students at Ferguson Elementary, voiced his worries about the lack of adequate assessment from the school district regarding the social and emotional effects of closing schools. He highlighted that a significant percentage of students at these schools are Hispanic and many qualify for free or reduced-price lunches, suggesting that the closures could disproportionately affect low-income families. Rico urged the city to advocate for the schools and consider the broader implications of such decisions on the community.

Janet Ortiz, another resident and parent, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the importance of maintaining Ferguson Elementary as a cultural and community hub. She shared her personal experiences with the school and its positive impact on her children, urging the city council to support efforts to keep the school open. Ortiz expressed a desire for the city to prioritize educational facilities over other developments, such as sports complexes or parks, which she believes do not address the community's needs.

Another resident suggested that Hawaiian Gardens consider establishing its own school district, potentially funded by local resources, to better serve the educational needs of its children. This proposal reflects a growing frustration with the current school district's management and the challenges faced by students, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The meeting underscored the community's commitment to preserving local schools as vital institutions that foster education and cultural identity. As discussions continue, residents are hopeful that their voices will lead to actionable support from the city council to keep these schools open and address the educational needs of Hawaiian Gardens families.