Highland Elementary seeks closure of grades 3 and 4 to open enrollment

The Columbia Heights Public School District held a meeting on June 24, 2025, where a significant proposal was made regarding enrollment at Highland Elementary. Principal Janke presented a request to close open enrollment for grades 3 and 4 at the school for the upcoming school year.

The decision comes as the school prepares for the new academic year, with Principal Janke noting that families are planning to return and stay, leading to a stable enrollment situation. The school aims to ensure adequate classroom space for resident students moving in over the summer.

During the meeting, it was highlighted that there is available space for open enrollment students in grades 3 and 4 at other district buildings. The motion to close Highland Elementary to open enrollment was put forward and seconded, indicating support for the proposal.

The board's decision will help manage classroom sizes and ensure that local students have priority access to education at Highland Elementary. Further discussions on enrollment numbers will continue as the summer progresses, with the possibility of revisiting the decision if circumstances change.